Chicago summers are short, so we make the most of them. Backyard parties, whether a birthday, graduation, engagement celebration or just a Saturday with friends, are some of our favorite events to work. Here's how to set up an outdoor bar that runs smoothly.
Pick the right spot
Place the bar where guests can reach it easily without blocking paths to the grill, the door or the bathroom. A spot near the edge of the main gathering area keeps lines from crowding conversation.
Check that the ground is stable and level, and think about the route you'll carry ice, tubs and bottles along — a long carry from the kitchen to the far corner of the yard gets old fast. Then look for shade: afternoon sun warms drinks, melts ice and wears out bartenders. A canopy, umbrella or tree line makes a big difference, and you'll want lighting once the sun goes down so guests can find the bar.
Plan for more ice than you think
Outdoor events burn through ice. Plan for 2 pounds per guest on hot days, and keep backup bags in a cooler out of the sun.
Keep the menu tight
Outdoors, simple works best. A cold beer and seltzer tub, one white wine, one rosé and one or two refreshing cocktails, like a spritz or a margarita, cover almost everyone.
Have a weather backup
Chicago weather changes fast. Know where the bar moves if it rains — a garage, a covered patio or a tent — and decide in advance at what point you make the call.
Be a good neighbor
Let neighbors know ahead of time, keep music at a reasonable level and wind down at a reasonable hour. Some hosts even invite the neighbors, which is the easiest noise solution there is.
Hydration and non-alcoholic options
Water should be easy to grab. Add a fun non-alcoholic option, like a fresh lemonade or sparkling mocktail, so everyone has something special.
Let us bring the bar
One boundary worth agreeing up front: we clear the bar area, ice tubs and our own equipment, while venue-wide bussing, trash hauling and yard cleanup are separate unless your proposal lists them. Shake & Gather sets up in backyards all over Chicago, from Uptown to the suburbs. We bring the tools, the know-how and the warm hospitality so you can enjoy your own party. Contact us at info.shakeandgather@gmail.com or 217-374-9985.
