5 Keys to Choosing the Perfect Drink Menu for Any Nigerian Occasion
If there’s one thing Nigerians know how to do, it’s throw an amazing party. We are a festive people who jump at any chance to celebrate with food, drinks, music and merriment. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday bash, house warming or just a chance to gather with friends and family, no occasion is too small for an epic “owambe.”
As the host, you want your guests to have an unforgettable experience. You put immense thought into the food, decorations, venue and entertainment. But too often, drinks are an afterthought. Many hosts put all their effort into the delicious cuisine and then at the last minute, just grab whatever beer, wine and sodas they can find. That’s a missed opportunity!
The perfect party offers a harmonious blend of incredible food and an inspired drink selection to complement it. With some advanced planning for your drinks menu, you can elevate your event from fun to truly legendary status. Here are 5 keys to choosing the perfect drink menu that will wow your guests:
1. Set a Realistic Budget: Before you start dreaming up a lavish cocktail list, realistically assess how much you can allocate specifically for beverages from your overall party budget. While you want quality, know your numbers — top-shelf liquor can get pricey fast. Look for affordable yet tasty options like wines and whiskey brands from Naija Liquor.
2. Consider Your Guest List: Run through the demographics of who’s attending. A younger crowd may prefer trendy cocktails or hard seltzers. Older guests likely enjoy finer wines, whiskeys and aged liquors. If kids will be present, you’ll need plenty of non-alcoholic drinks too. Tailor your drink menu to what will appeal to your specific guest list.
3. Plan a Strategic Drink Menu: Don’t just wing it! Make an actual menu or checklist of everything you plan to serve rather than haphazardly grabbing random bottles. You can even share a Google Form with guests ahead of time to get their preferences.
4. Get Creative & Adventurous: While you’ll want to include classics like beer, wine and sodas, don’t be afraid to get creative and surprise guests with fun, unique drink options they may not have tried before. For example, Naija Liquor premium wines can add an exciting twist. Fruity sangrias, craft cocktails and spiked punches are all fair game.
5. Offer Plentiful Variety: The most thoughtful hosts ensure there is something for everyone by providing a wide assortment. Have plenty of liquor, wine and cognac varietals as well as non-alcoholic options like red wines, soda, juice and water so all guests feel accommodated. Limiting to just one or two drink choices is the ultimate party foul.
With a little forethought into curating the perfect drink menu, you’ll keep guests happily hydrated all night long. Combined with incredible food and an energetic playlist, you’re guaranteed to throw a legendary bash that will have people raving for weeks after. After all, sending guests home with amazing memories is the most rewarding part of hosting.