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Holiday parties in Nashville are never one-size-fits-all, especially when it comes to beverages. Whether your company is made up of music lovers ready to toast with Tennessee whiskey, or a team that’s happiest with a round of craft sodas, how you structure drinks for your holiday event can set the tone for the entire evening. At 14TENN, we’ve seen it all, and know that each option has its perks (and a few drawbacks). The key is finding the setup that fits your company culture, guest count, and budget.
Let’s break down the three most common choices for handling drinks at your holiday party in Nashville.
Option 1: Open Bar
An open bar is the classic crowd-pleaser. Guests can sip on anything they like—whether that’s a bold glass of red, a signature cocktail, or a bubbly toast to wrap up the year. It’s fun, it’s easy, and it encourages everyone to loosen up and mingle.
Pros: The vibe is festive and carefree, and there’s no awkward moment of “Who’s paying?” at the bar. Plus, Nashville is a city that knows how to party, and an open bar fits right in.
Cons: It can get pricey, fast. There’s also a risk of overindulgence, which can cut the night short for some guests (or best case scenario, create a few unforgettable karaoke moments).
Best For: Larger companies with healthy budgets who want to treat employees to a full-blown Music City celebration.
Option 2: Drink Tickets
Drink tickets strike a balance between generosity and practicality. Each guest gets a set number of tickets they can redeem for cocktails, beer, or wine. After that, it’s up to them to purchase more if they want to keep sipping.
Pros: This keeps the bar tab predictable and manageable, so you don’t have sticker shock at the end of the night. It’s also a smart way to make sure everyone has a couple of drinks without overdoing it.
Cons: Tickets can run out quickly, and some guests may feel limited if they want more. Plus, let’s be honest, keeping track of little slips of paper isn’t always the easiest during a busy night of mingling.
Best For: Mid-sized companies that want to be generous but still keep a close eye on expenses.
Option 3: No Alcohol
Sometimes, skipping alcohol entirely is the simplest choice. This is especially true for companies that want to keep things family-friendly, focus on wellness, or cut costs. And Nashville has no shortage of creative mocktail options, so your bar can still feel festive.
Pros: It’s the most budget-friendly option, and you avoid any worries about overconsumption or transportation afterward.
Cons: Let’s be real—some guests may find it less exciting. While you can make up for it with entertainment, games, or music, the energy might feel different without cocktails in the mix.
Best For: Smaller teams, budget-conscious events, or companies that want to keep the vibe low-key and inclusive.
So, What’s the Right Choice for Your Company Holiday Party?
At 14TENN, we know corporate and company holiday parties in Nashville come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re leaning toward an open bar, a ticket system, or a booze-free bash, our team has the experience to make sure your beverage setup runs smoothly, and that your guests have the best time possible.
Ready to start planning a holiday party your team will be talking about well into the new year? Contact us today and let’s raise a glass (mocktail or otherwise) to celebrating in style at 14TENN.
