Beyond The Bar: How To Use Cocktail Napkins
It’s easy to remember the beverage napkins when planning your next cocktail party. But this essential table linen can handle much more than just the drinks. If you’re wondering how to use cocktail napkins beyond the bar, we’re here to give you some inspiration.
What Are Cocktail Napkins?
Cocktail or beverage napkins are small, square, and meant to be served alongside a refreshing drink. The average cocktail napkin measures about 5” by 5”, the perfect size to accompany a wine glass or chic cocktail tumbler.
What's the purpose of a cocktail napkin?
Cocktail napkins are designed to keep things clean, whether it’s your guests’ hands or your furniture. Ice cold drinks tend to sweat, leaving condensation around the glass. A cocktail napkin makes it easier to hold onto a drink at the party without getting wet palms. When it’s time to set the drink down, a cocktail napkin provides a barrier so no one leaves rings on the table. And of course, it’s always good to have a napkin readily available in case you spill a bit of your drink.
5 Alternative Uses for Cocktail Napkins
Most of the time, you get a cocktail napkin when the bartender is handing you a drink, but that’s not the only place they belong. If you’re debating whether to use beverage, luncheon, or dinner napkins at your next event, consider a stack of cocktail napkins at the side of these party attractions.
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Charcuterie boards and grazing tables
They’re the ideal size for a gourmet cracker or a few slices of cheese. Guests can use them to hold their food while they mingle. When they’re all done, they’ve got a napkin handy to wipe away any crumbs from their hands or any spreads left on their face.
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Cocktail hour appetizers
When it’s an upscale event, full of gowns, black ties, and waiters making the rounds with delicious bites, cocktail napkins are the perfect accessory. If you’re a catering company, custom branded cocktail napkins are also a great way to promote your business.
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Self-serve bars
Hosting a more casual get together with large pitchers of a signature cocktail? Leave out plenty of cocktail napkins where guests can easily grab one after pouring themselves a drink. This works for non-alcoholic options as well. They’re perfect for warm beverages like coffee and tea stations if you’re hosting an early morning corporate conference.
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Snack station
Late night snacks like popcorn or pretzels are a great way to close out a long night of fun and dancing. If you’re including a grab-and-go snack bar at the end of a big bash like a wedding, cocktail napkins make serving convenient.
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Dessert tables
These little squares are just the right size for a small sweet treat. Guests can easily grab a cookie or brownie and indulge as much as they wish.
Where to Set Up Cocktail Napkins at Your Event
Convenience is king when deciding where to place your cocktail napkins. These squares stack up nicely anywhere guests need to reach. If they’re going to an attended bar, next to the garnishes make things easy on the bartender. If it’s a self-serve scenario, set them next to the glasses, so guests can grab everything they need when it’s their turn.
The same rule goes for food stations. Put your cocktail napkins near the plates and silverware for simple self service.
How to Customize Cocktail Napkins for Your Event
Napkins with custom branding or designs make any occasion feel more professional and polished. Order custom napkins from a trusted manufacturer who can bring your vision to life. Naptec is happy to add any image or text to our cocktail napkins via embossing, color printing or foil stamping. All you have to do is upload a file of your image at checkout and approve a digital proof of your design.
How Many Cocktail Napkins Do You Need to Buy?
The general rule for ordering cocktail napkins is to plan for 2 to 3 serviettes per guest. It never hurts to have extras, though, especially if you’re serving food. Three to four napkins per person is usually enough to cover cocktail hour, appetizers, dessert, and any unexpected spills that might happen.
Why Should You Choose Airlaid Cocktail Napkins?
Airlaid napkins offer a luxurious guest experience without sacrificing convenience for the busy host. They are paper cocktail napkins that feel just like real linen, thanks to premium materials and an innovative manufacturing process that makes them both soft and strong. Unlike cloth cocktail napkins, though, airlaid napkins don’t need to be sent out to laundry at the end of the night.
Add Naptec Cocktail Napkins to the Menu
From the bar to the dessert table, cocktail napkins are one of those little details that make a big difference. Whatever your hosting plans may be, Naptec has you covered with our linen-like paper cocktail napkins. Just like all of our products, our beverage napkins are manufactured right in the U.S. with premium materials and technology. They look just like real cloth without any of the hassle. Plus, with fast lead times, even on bulk orders, they’re always ready in time for what’s next on your calendar. Shop Naptec’s collection today for all your hosting needs.