Brunch might be the most fun meal to host. It's relaxed, it's social and it comes with a built-in excuse for bubbles. Whether it's a bridal shower, a farewell brunch, a birthday or a day-after-the-wedding gathering, here's how to build a brunch bar guests will love.
The mimosa bar
Set out chilled sparkling wine with a colorful lineup of juices:
- Classic orange
- Grapefruit
- Pineapple
- Cranberry
- Peach or mango nectar
Add fresh berries, citrus wheels and mint for garnish. Assumption: about one bottle of sparkling wine (750 mL) for every three guests, for a two-hour brunch at a 50/50 wine-to-juice ratio; a longer brunch or heavier pours will need more.
The Bloody Mary bar
A build-your-own Bloody Mary station is part drink, part appetizer. Offer a good Bloody Mary mix, vodka and a spread of toppings:
- Celery, pickles and olives
- Lemon and lime wedges
- Hot sauces and horseradish
- Bacon, cheese cubes or pickled vegetables for the adventurous
Bacon, cheese and similar ideas here are inspiration for your own spread — they aren't part of our Brunch package. Our Brunch package covers beer, wine, mimosas, Bloody Marys, Bloody Mary mix, juices, standard mixers and non-alcoholic drinks, and anything beyond that is confirmed in your quote.
Rim salts, like celery salt or a spicy blend, add a finishing touch.
Don't forget the non-drinkers
Fresh juices, sparkling water and a brunch mocktail, like a sparkling citrus spritz, keep the table inclusive.
Coffee counts too
Great coffee is simple to include. An espresso martini station is a separate enhancement, subject to equipment and power availability at your venue, confirmed in your quote.
Book our Brunch package
This article covers the wider brunch menu; for the mimosa-station specifics and ratios, see our mimosa bar guide. Shake & Gather's Brunch package includes beer, wine, mimosas, Bloody Marys, Bloody Mary mix, juices, standard mixers and non-alcoholic drinks. Contact us at info.shakeandgather@gmail.com or 217-374-9985.
