As the warmer months roll around, there is nothing quite like hosting a summer garden party with friends, family, or colleagues. Whether you are celebrating a milestone birthday, hosting a casual weekend gathering, or putting on a corporate summer social, one thing can truly elevate the experience - a professionally set up outdoor bar. But planning the perfect outdoor bar takes more than just stacking a few bottles on a table. From choosing the right drinks menu to ensuring your guests are well looked after, there is plenty to consider. In this guide, we share our top tips for creating a show-stopping outdoor bar that will have your guests talking for months to come.
Choose the Right Bar Setup for Your Event
The first step in planning your outdoor bar is deciding what type of setup suits your event best. This will depend on the size of your guest list, the formality of the occasion, and your budget.
- Staffed mobile bar: If you want a premium, hassle-free experience, a fully staffed mobile bar is the gold standard. Professional bartenders will serve your guests, mix cocktails, and keep everything running smoothly so you can relax and enjoy yourself.
- Self-service bar: For a more relaxed, informal vibe, a self-service option like a Bar in a Box is a fantastic choice. Everything you need is delivered directly to your door, ready to set up, and your guests can help themselves at their leisure.
- Dry hire: If you already have your drinks sorted but need a stylish bar unit to serve from, dry hire gives you a professional-looking setup without the staffing costs.
Think about the flow of your event when positioning your bar. Place it in a spot that is easy to access but does not create a bottleneck near the entrance or food stations. A corner of the garden or a shaded area under a gazebo works brilliantly.
Plan a Drinks Menu That Impresses
Your drinks menu can make or break the bar experience. The key is to offer variety without overcomplicating things. Here are some practical tips for getting it right:
- Offer a signature cocktail: A bespoke cocktail that ties into your party theme adds a personal touch and gives guests something memorable to enjoy. Think Aperol Spritz for a Mediterranean theme, or a fruity punch for a tropical vibe.
- Cover all bases: Make sure you have options for everyone, including beer, wine, spirits, soft drinks, and non-alcoholic alternatives. Mocktails are increasingly popular and ensure nobody feels left out.
- Consider the weather: On a hot summer day, lighter, refreshing drinks like prosecco, gin and tonic, and chilled rose will go down a treat. Have plenty of ice and chilled water available too.
- Estimate quantities carefully: As a rough guide, plan for around three to four drinks per person for the first two hours, then one to two drinks per hour after that. It is always better to have a little extra than to run out mid-party.
Do Not Forget the Practical Details
A beautiful bar setup means nothing if you have not thought through the logistics. Here is a quick checklist to keep you on track:
- Power supply: If your bar needs refrigeration, lighting, or blenders, make sure you have a power source nearby or arrange for a generator.
- Shelter: British weather is notoriously unpredictable, even in summer. A gazebo, marquee, or canopy over the bar area will protect your setup from sudden rain showers and keep drinks cool in the shade.
- Glassware and accessories: Decide whether you want real glassware for an upscale feel or high-quality plastic for a safer, more practical option - especially if children will be around.
- Waste and recycling: Place bins near the bar for bottles, cans, and cups to keep the area tidy throughout the event.
- Licensing: If you are charging for drinks, you may need a temporary event notice. If drinks are free, this is generally not required, but it is always worth checking with your local council.
Add Those Extra Special Touches
To really wow your guests, think about the finishing details that turn a good bar into a great one. Fairy lights or festoon lighting around the bar create a magical atmosphere as the evening draws in. Fresh garnishes like mint, citrus slices, and berries add colour and flair to drinks. You could even add a fun element like Butlers in the Buff for hen parties or milestone celebrations to create an unforgettable experience.
Personalised signage, themed decorations, and a curated playlist playing nearby will all help to set the mood and make your outdoor bar feel like a destination in itself.
Planning the perfect outdoor bar does not have to be stressful. With the right preparation and the right team behind you, it can be the highlight of your summer event. Whether you need a fully staffed cocktail bar, a self-service Bar in a Box delivered to your door, or a stylish dry hire unit, Viva Bar Hire and Events has you covered nationwide. Visit vivabarhire.co.uk today to explore our full range of mobile bar hire options and start planning your dream summer garden party.