Planning a wedding, corporate event, or large celebration in Kansas City? One of the most important (and often overlooked) aspects of event planning is buying alcohol in bulk. Getting the right amount—and the right mix—of wine, beer, and spirits can elevate your event while saving you time and money.
At Pina Wine & Spirits, we help customers every day with bulk liquor purchases for weddings, fundraisers, company parties, and more. Whether you’re looking for signature cocktail ingredients or a crowd-pleasing beer selection, our experts break down exactly what you need to know.
Let’s toast to smarter event planning with these bulk alcohol buying tips!
Why Buy Liquor in Bulk?
1. Cost Savings
Buying in volume allows you to take advantage of bulk pricing and event discounts—often reducing your per-bottle cost significantly.
2. Simplified Shopping
Instead of making multiple trips for individual bottles, you can stock everything in one go and focus on enjoying the celebration.
3. Peace of Mind
When you plan ahead and purchase enough for your guest count, you avoid last-minute liquor runs or running dry mid-event.
Local Tip: Pina Wine & Spirits offers special-order services and volume discounts at all our Kansas City locations.
Estimate the Right Amount of Alcohol
A good rule of thumb is:
1 drink per guest per hour.
Multiply that by the number of hours your event lasts and the number of attendees.
Example:
- 100 guests
- 4-hour reception
- Estimated = 400 total drinks
Drink Ratio (Industry Standard):
- 40% Wine
- 35% Beer
- 25% Spirits
This breakdown works well for most events unless you’re featuring a full bar or signature cocktails, in which case spirits may take a larger share.
Wine Selection Tips
Wines are a must-have for most events due to their wide appeal.
How Much to Buy:
- 1 bottle of wine = 5 glasses
- For 100 guests × 2 glasses each = 40 bottles of wine
Red vs. White:
- Spring/Summer: 60% white / 40% red
- Fall/Winter: 60% red / 40% white
Event Favorites:
- White: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay
- Red: Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot
- Sparkling: Prosecco or Champagne for toasts
Beer Planning for a Crowd
Beer is the go-to for casual events, outdoor receptions, and corporate functions.
How Much to Buy:
- 1 keg = 165 12-oz servings
- 24-pack = 24 servings
- Assume 1–2 beers per guest for a 4-hour event
Beer Types to Include:
- Light Lager or Pilsner (e.g., Michelob Ultra, Bud Light)
- IPA or Craft Beer (for variety)
- Local picks (ask about Missouri breweries!)
Pina Perk: Ask about our rotating craft beer selection from local Kansas City breweries!
Spirits for Signature Cocktails
If you’re planning on offering cocktails, you’ll need base spirits and mixers.
Common Bottles to Buy:
- Vodka (e.g., Tito’s)
- Tequila (e.g., Espolon, Don Julio)
- Whiskey or Bourbon (e.g., Bulleit, Maker’s Mark)
- Gin (e.g., Tanqueray, Bombay)
- Rum (e.g., Bacardi, Captain Morgan)
How Much to Buy:
- 1 liter = ~22 mixed drinks
- For 100 guests × 1 cocktail each = 5–6 bottles of each spirit
Don’t Forget Mixers:
- Tonic water, club soda, ginger beer
- Juices (cranberry, lime, orange)
- Bitters, simple syrup, garnishes (lemons, limes, olives)
Budgeting Tips for Buying Liquor in Bulk
1. Set a Per-Guest Budget
A good range is $12–$20 per person depending on the bar type (beer/wine only vs. full bar).
2. Ask About Discounts
Many liquor stores offer volume discounts or special pricing for weddings and large events.
3. Return Unused Bottles (If Allowed)
Some vendors allow returns on unopened bottles—check policies before buying.
4. Choose House Brands Where Possible
If you’re not hosting a top-shelf bar, choose reputable mid-range brands that deliver quality at a great price.
Logistics: Delivery, Storage, and Bartending
Delivery Options
Check whether your liquor vendor offers delivery to your venue or event space.
Storage
Keep beer and white wine cold! Plan for refrigeration space and coolers.
Bartender Prep
Ask your bartender what tools and setup they’ll need. Pre-mix simple cocktails if possible to reduce wait times.
Final Checklist: What to Bring to the Store
- Guest count and number of hours
- Preferred drink ratio (wine, beer, spirits)
- Bar type (beer & wine only, full bar, cocktail-focused)
- Venue policies (can you bring your own alcohol?)
- Storage and service logistics
- Special requests (non-alcoholic options, champagne toast, signature drinks)
Buy Bulk Liquor at Pina Wine & Spirits – Kansas City
Planning a large event in Kansas City or the surrounding area? Pina Wine & Spirits is your trusted source for:
- Bulk wine, beer, and spirits
- Special-order requests and custom quotes
- Pickup and delivery options (varies by location)
- Expert staff guidance
- Support for weddings, corporate events, galas, fundraisers, and more
Find a location near you: https://pinawineandspirits.com/locations
Want a custom quote? Stop by or call one of our knowledgeable team members—we’re happy to help you build the perfect event bar.
Final Sip: Make It Memorable
When it comes to weddings and large events, a well-stocked bar sets the tone and keeps your guests happy. By following these bulk liquor buying tips, you can host an unforgettable party without breaking the bank.
From affordable wine cases to premium spirits and local beer, trust Pina Wine & Spirits to make your special occasion smooth, simple, and spirited.
