How to host a small-space party with one machine

You can throw a great apartment or small-space party with one frozen drink machine: give it a sturdy counter or our rolling cart, an outlet on its own circuit, and a clear path so guests pour and move on. One machine serves up to 100 guests, so even a small place gets two flavors without a crowded bar.

Find the counter space

The machine needs a sturdy counter or table. If your counters are full, add our rolling machine cart (one per machine) and skip the table.

• Leave room beside the machine for cups, napkins, and a small plate of rim salt.
• Pick a spot away from the front door, so arriving guests don't stall at the drinks.
• Keep the machine out of the main walkway between the kitchen and the living room.
• Clear the counter before we arrive. We set up 2 to 3 hours before the party.

Find an outlet on its own circuit

Each machine needs a standard 110 volt outlet on its own circuit. In an apartment, kitchen outlets often share a circuit with the microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, or toaster oven.

To find a free circuit:

1. Look at the labels in your breaker panel.
2. Plug a lamp into the outlet you want to use.
3. Switch off that breaker and see what else goes dark.
4. Move or turn off everything else on that circuit for the party.

Keep slow cookers, speakers, and space heaters on a different circuit. For the full how-to, read power for a frozen drink machine.

Plan the flow

Small spaces feel crowded when everyone stands in one spot. Spread the party into zones:

• Drinks: the machine, cups, and a trash can in one corner of the kitchen.
• Food: a buffet on the dining table or a side table, away from the machine.
• Seating: chairs and floor cushions in the living room or on the balcony.

Two bowls help the line move, since guests pick a flavor and go. Label each bowl, especially when one is a margarita and the other is a kids slushie. Every mix is alcohol-free until you add alcohol.

Water and access

You provide a garden hose and water source ready when we arrive. If your apartment doesn't have a hose hookup, contact us before you book.

Tell us about gate codes, elevators, stairs, and where to park when you book, so delivery and pickup go smoothly.

Check your building's rules

If you plan to use a clubhouse, pool deck, or courtyard, check your lease or HOA rules first: some spaces need a reservation, and many have rules about alcohol and guest counts. Ask your property manager. For bigger building events, read our guide to apartment, HOA, and community events.

How much to make

One mix serves about 20 guests. A margarita mix makes about 75 frozen drinks (8 oz each), and most fruit slushie mixes make about 50.

Unopened mixes are refunded at pickup, so an extra mix on hand costs you nothing if you don't open it.

Small-space checklist

• [ ] Clear counter, sturdy table, or rolling cart
• [ ] Outlet on its own circuit, tested
• [ ] Garden hose and water source ready
• [ ] Separate zones for drinks, food, and seating
• [ ] Labels on each bowl
• [ ] Building rules checked

Ready to plan? Check dates and book online in minutes, or get a quick estimate first.