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The holidays are just around the corner, and if you’re the lucky one in charge of planning your company holiday party in Charlotte, one big question is bound to come up: What’s the beverage game plan?
Whether your team is celebrating in Uptown, the South End, or right here at PINE in NoDa, there are three main ways to handle drinks: open bar, drink tickets, or no alcohol at all. Each has its perks (and pitfalls), and the right choice depends on your team, your budget, and the vibe you’re going for.
We’ll break each choice down for you.
Option 1: Open Bar
Ah, the open bar — no surprise, it’s the crowd favorite. Guests love it because there’s no stress about cost, and it creates a relaxed, social atmosphere where colleagues can connect outside of the office.
Pros:
Easy and effortless for guests
Keeps the energy flowing and conversations buzzing
Makes the night feel like a treat
Cons:
Pricey…those cocktails add up fast!
Can lead to overindulgence (especially if you’ve got someone from the office who doesn’t know when to say “last call”)
Best for: Larger companies or teams who want to go all out and reward employees with a night that feels indulgent. Think of it as the “work hard, play hard” holiday party option.
Option 2: Drink Tickets
Drink tickets strike a balance between festive and practical. Each guest gets a set number of tickets, so they can enjoy a couple of glasses of wine, a cocktail, or a craft beer without things getting out of hand.
Pros:
Keeps costs predictable and under control
Encourages moderation while still offering variety
Guests feel like they’re getting something “on the house”
Cons:
Tickets can run out quickly—awkward if the night is still young
Some people may feel restricted compared to an open bar
Best for: Mid-sized companies or those looking for a happy medium. It’s ideal if you want to offer alcohol but also keep the bar tab from climbing higher than Charlotte’s skyline.
Option 3: No Alcohol
Hear us out: skipping alcohol doesn’t mean skipping fun. In fact, some teams thrive with a completely sober company holiday celebration, especially if the focus is on activities, games, or family-friendly vibes.
Pros:
Budget-friendly; your CFO will love you
Keeps the event inclusive for everyone (no pressure for those who don’t drink)
No worries about overconsumption
Cons:
Some guests may find it less exciting (but hey, that’s where epic entertainment and amazing catering come in!)
Best for: Smaller companies, teams that prefer morning or afternoon celebrations, or groups who want to make it all about connection and creativity instead of cocktails.
So, What’s Right for Your Charlotte Company Holiday Party?
At the end of the day, the best choice depends on your company culture, budget, and goals. Whether you go all-in with an open bar, strike a balance with drink tickets, or keep it simple with no alcohol, the important thing is creating a celebration your team will love.
At PINE, we’ve seen (and planned) it all. Our team is here to help you design not just a holiday party, but a seamless experience—from choosing the beverage setup to setting the mood with the perfect décor.
Ready to start planning? Contact us today to lock in your holiday party at PINE.
