How much Alcohol do I buy?

Why BYO Packages Work Best When You’re Guided by Professionals

Choosing a BYO alcohol package is one of the smartest ways to control costs and customise your event — but only if it’s planned properly. Buying too little can slow service and disappoint guests, while buying too much often leads to unnecessary spend and leftover stock.

That’s where professional guidance makes all the difference.

At The Barmen, BYO doesn’t mean “figure it out yourself.” We guide our clients on exactly what alcohol to purchase, how much to buy, and how to structure their bar so service runs smoothly from the first pour to the final round.

BYO Alcohol Without the Guesswork

One of the most common questions we hear is simple: How much alcohol do I actually need? The answer depends on far more than guest numbers alone.

When we plan BYO packages, we factor in:

• Guest count

• Event duration

• Cocktail-heavy vs mixed-drinks service

• Weather and season

• Guest demographics and drinking style

  
  

This allows us to give realistic, event-specific alcohol recommendations — not generic formulas.

Alcohol Lists Tailored to Your Drinks Menu

Every BYO package starts with your menu. Whether you’re serving cocktails, beer and wine, or a combination of everything, we calculate quantities based on how the bar will actually operate on the day.

Our guidance typically includes:

• Spirit and liqueur quantities per cocktail

• Recommended bottle counts

• Backup stock allowances

• Suggestions to simplify service and reduce waste

  
  

The result is a mobile bar that stays stocked, efficient, and consistent throughout the event.

Cocktail-Focused Events Done Properly

Cocktail-heavy events require a more considered approach to BYO planning. It’s not just about base spirits — liqueurs, modifiers, and balance all matter.

We provide:

• Detailed alcohol breakdowns for each cocktail

• Advice on overlapping ingredients across the menu

• Recommendations to avoid over-purchasing niche products

• Scalable quantities if guest numbers change

  
  

This keeps costs controlled while still delivering quality cocktails at speed.

Smarter Spending, Less Waste

One of the biggest advantages of BYO packages is flexibility — especially when paired with smart purchasing.

Large liquor retailers like Dan Murphy’s offer generous return policies on unopened alcohol, which allows clients to purchase confidently without worrying about overcommitting. When guided properly, this makes BYO a low-risk and cost-effective option.

On top of that, we have access to industry partnerships and supplier deals that allow us to recommend the best value options available. These relationships help our clients:

• Purchase alcohol at better price points

• Choose brands that perform well behind the bar

• Avoid unnecessary premium spend where it isn’t needed

  
  

It’s about spending smarter — not more.

Clear Advice You Can Actually Use

We don’t provide vague estimates or confusing spreadsheets. Our clients receive clear, practical guidance that makes purchasing simple — whether you’re organising delivery or shopping yourself.

We explain:

• What’s essential

• What’s optional

• Where flexibility exists

• How to adjust quantities if plans change

  
  

That clarity makes BYO approachable, even for first-time hosts.

A Better Experience for Hosts and Guests

When alcohol planning is done properly, the difference is obvious. Bartenders aren’t scrambling, guests aren’t waiting, and hosts aren’t worrying about what’s running low.

With professional BYO guidance, the bar runs smoothly — and you get to enjoy your own event.

BYO Mobile Bartending Across Brisbane, Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay & Sydney

The Barmen provide BYO mobile bartending services across Queensland and New South Wales, including:

• Brisbane

• Gold Coast

• Toowoomba

• Sunshine Coast

• Byron Bay

• Sydney

  
  

No matter the location or event size, we provide the same clear guidance, supplier insight, and professional support.

The Bottom Line

A BYO bar setup works best when it’s backed by experience. With our guidance, you’ll know exactly what alcohol to buy, how much you need, and how to take advantage of flexible return policies and industry pricing.

BYO doesn’t have to mean uncertainty — with the right planning and a professional mobile bartending service, it becomes one of the most efficient, flexible, and cost-effective ways to run a great event.

Why Choose The Barmen?

At The Barmen, we believe in making your event unforgettable. Our team is dedicated to providing high-class, professional cocktail experiences that leave a lasting impression. We’re not just about serving drinks; we’re about creating memories!

When you choose us, you’re choosing a partner who understands the nuances of event planning. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of BYO alcohol packages and ensure that every detail is taken care of.

So, are you ready to elevate your event? Let’s make it a celebration to remember!