When it comes to weddings, there’s a fine line between tradition and monotonous repetition. These days, many happy couples are adapting the events they incorporate into their wedding to make the experience truly personal. And a Stock the Bar party is a new trend that’s sometimes replacing a traditional bridal shower or engagement party.

So what exactly is a Stock the Bar party? This is a casual celebration includes both sides of the wedding party. Gifts focus on items that will stock the bar of the soon-to-be-married couple. Think favourite wines, spirits, and any related barware. The event is gaining popularity with millennials, who are getting married later in life and have less need for traditional registry gifts.

Here’s our guide for throwing a successful Stock the Bar party.

Invitations and Registry

Personalize your invitations and make expectations from guests clear since this is a less traditional event. Include a call to RSVP and to gift your favourite wines or spirits. If you’ve chosen to register for gifts like a bar cart, glassware, or barware, have the host mention this at the same time the invitations go out.

Drinks

Be sure to have plenty of drinks prepared in advance of the party. The event is not meant to be used to stock the bar of the party itself or the actual wedding reception. The aim is to help celebrate and prepare the couple with supplies for future entertaining. Kicking off arrivals with a signature drink is a nice way to welcome guests.

Set the Scene

Just because the event is less traditional and more casual, don’t overlook decor. A modern brass bar cart set with liquors, stylish bar accessories, and favourite florals is an easy way to set the mood.

Appetizers

Just as with any cocktail party or shower, you’ll need an array of appetizers served throughout the event for your guests to enjoy. You can keep it simple with a buffet table. Just be sure to recruit a few members of the wedding party to keep an eye on supplies.

Recruit a mixologist

If you want to go above and beyond for this event, recruit a cocktail-savvy friend to tend the bar, or even hire a professional to keep the party going. This will take a ton of the stress off hosting and allow each guest to have exactly what they like. If the bartender is particularly skilled, ask him or her to perform a few tricks or offer a demonstration for added entertainment.

Photography by A Plus Creative