An office holiday party should allow colleagues to relax without making alcohol the measure of participation. A good beverage plan is compact, professionally served and equally welcoming to employees who do not drink.
Confirm workplace and venue policy
Review HR, insurance, licensing, service-time and transportation rules. Use licensed bartenders where required and identify who can stop service.
Choose a limited menu
- One white and one red wine
- A sparkling option for a toast
- One or two simple cocktails
- Beer where appropriate
- Several visible alcohol-free drinks
Explore wine, sparkling selections and ready-to-drink options after venue approval.
Make nonalcoholic drinks part of the menu
Offer water, sparkling drinks and zero-proof cocktails at the main bar. Do not call attention to employees who decline alcohol or center games on drinking.
Plan service and transportation
- Serve substantial food.
- Use measured recipes.
- Set a clear end time.
- Arrange safe transportation options.
- Do not allow unattended self-service stock.
Communicate before the event
Tell employees what food, drinks and transportation will be available. Make attendance and alcohol consumption separate choices.
