How To Set Up A Bloody Mary Bar

Ever wondered how to set up your own bloody mary bar? The tips included in today’s post will make it easy for the host/hostess to relax and enjoy the party while the guests help themselves to delicious bloody mary’s.

My mom and I recently helped with my sister-in-law’s baby shower. It was a beautiful boho chic event. Absolutely gorgeous! Our contribution was a bloody mary and mimosa bar. Today I thought I’d focus on the bloody mary bar and break down our ideas, our thought process, and our final result.

The first thing you need to think about when setting up your bloody mary bar is the location. Since your guests will be helping themselves to all the yummy garnishes, you want to select a place that is convenient and easily accessible.

Additionally, you may consider having the bloody mary bar in a separate location from the food table to avoid any congestion.

Next, think about presentation. In situations like this (actually, in almost all situations) I like for things to match. Pick a material (white plastic, glass, metal, wood, etc) and try to use that for all the serving bowls that will hold the bloody mary toppings or garnishes.

Also, don’t forget proper glassware. I nice sturdy glass is essential to the presentation. If you have to go with a plastic cup, make sure it is a higher quality cup, not the cheapest thing you can find.

Best Bloody Mary Recipe

Premixed Bloody Marys or a homemade recipe? What’s better? Honestly, I think there is a time and a place where each of these thrive. Nothing beats a good homemade recipe (this applies to almost everything), but a homemade bloody mary made to order only works if you are hosting a more intimate gathering.

For larger parties stick with the premixed stuff. Save yourself a lot of time and hassle.

Bloody mary or bloody maria? The main difference between a bloody mary and a bloody maria is the type of alcohol that is used. A bloody mary uses vodka while a bloody maria uses tequila.

How Much Is Enough?

How much to buy? This is tough. My mom and I sat in the aisle of the grocery store and did a lot of math. You want to be sure to have enough, but not too much.

A few things to consider: What time of day is the party being held? What is the occasion? How many guests will be attending? How many guests are over the age of 21? Will any other drinks be served in addition to the bloody mary bar?

We recently stocked a bloody mary bar for a baby shower brunch. For a party of 60ish people we went through 3 gallons of premixed bloody mary’s and 6 bottles of alcohol on the mimosa bar.

Bloody Mary Bar Garnishes

Don’t skimp on the garnishes. The garnishes are what make the bar special. Don’t be afraid to go crazy. Your guests will have fun trying new combinations of toppings.

Olives
Dill pickle spears
Celery
Carrots
Jalapenos
Pickled asparagus
Pickled beets
Pickled green beans
Salami
Hot sauce
Cheese cubes
Lemon wedges
Lime wedges
Fresh herbs (dill, basil, parsley)

If you want to get extra fancy…

Crispy bacon
Grilled cheese halves
Grilled shrimp