Starting as a bartender at events is so exciting. The first step is to make sure you have all the necessary tools for your success and efficiency. Here’s a guide on what every event bartender should have in their bar kit, along with links to where you can purchase these items.

Must-Have Tools for Every Event

Shaker

• Purpose: Essential for mixing cocktails.

• Why It’s Important: Shaking helps combine ingredients and chill the drink, creating a well-blended cocktail.

Strainer

• Purpose: Ensures that ice and other solid ingredients don’t make it into the final drink.

• Why It’s Important: Provides a smooth drink experience and prevents unwanted particles from entering the glass.

Stirrer

• Purpose: Perfect for mixing drinks that don’t require shaking.

• Why It’s Important: Ideal for cocktails that need gentle mixing, such as martinis.

Muddler

• Purpose: Used for mashing fruits, herbs, and spices to release their flavors.

• Why It’s Important: Enhances the flavor profile of cocktails like mojitos or old fashioneds.

Jigger and Double Jigger

• Purpose: For accurately measuring and pouring liquids.

• Why It’s Important: Ensures consistency in cocktail recipes and prevents waste.

Bar Mat

• Purpose: Helps keep your workspace clean and organized.

• Why It’s Important: Prevents spills and makes cleanup easier.

Pour Spouts

• Purpose: Essential for controlling the flow of liquids from bottles.

• Why It’s Important: Helps with accurate pouring and reduces spills.

Cutting Board and Knife

• Purpose: For slicing garnishes and other ingredients.

• Why It’s Important: Ensures fresh and well-prepared garnishes for your cocktails.

Ice Scoop

• Purpose: Keeps ice sanitary and easy to handle.

• Why It’s Important: Avoids direct hand contact with ice, maintaining hygiene.

Lemon/Lime Squeezer

• Purpose: For fresh juice in cocktails.

• Why It’s Important: Provides a fresh and vibrant flavor to your drinks.

Bottle Opener and Wine Key

• Purpose: Necessary for opening various types of bottles.

• Why It’s Important: Ensures you can open everything from beer bottles to wine.

Always Bring Your Full Bar Kit

When working private events, it's nonnegotiable to always bring your full bar kit. The nature of private events means you can encounter a wide range of setups—from a fully stocked bar to a simple beer and wine selection. Regardless of the type of event, you must be prepared for any situation. Bringing your full bar kit ensures that you can handle any request, whether it’s mixing cocktails or simply pouring a glass of wine. Even if you end up using only a few tools, having everything on hand showcases your professionalism and readiness, leaving a positive impression on both clients and guests.

Additional Recommendations

• Ice Bucket

  • To store and easily access ice throughout the event.

By having these tools on hand, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any bartending task that comes your way, ensuring a smooth and professional service at every event.

For more tips and insights on event staffing and bartending, visit our blog at Elevate Events.