Planning an outdoor event is a bit like spinning plates, permits, suppliers, signage, weather backups, bins… it’s easy to miss the small stuff. But some of those “small” things? They’re the bits your guests actually see and touch.
Like the cups.
Whether you’re organising a community market, food fair, sports day, or staff BBQ, the drink station matters. It’s where people go to recharge, cool off, or warm up. And if you’re handing them a plastic cup? That moment of connection becomes a bit less thoughtful.
So before you finalise that supplier list, make sure you’re stocked on the one item that’s often left until the last minute, compostable cups.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you get it right.
1. How Many People Are You Serving?
Start simple. Estimate your footfall. Then add extra, always. People tend to grab more than one drink, especially if there’s tea and coffee alongside cold options.
Rough guide:
- 50 people = at least 100 cups
- 200 people = 300 to 400 cups
- Bigger events? You’ll want to buy in bulk
Having compostable cups in multiple sizes (8oz, 12oz, 16oz) means you’re ready for hot drinks, soft drinks, or even a cheeky splash of mulled wine if things get festive.
2. Are the Cups Suitable for Hot and Cold?
Not all cups are built the same. Some wilt with heat. Some get soggy. With Cup Brands compostable coffee cups, you don’t have to overthink it. They hold their shape. They feel sturdy. And yes, they work for both hot and cold drinks.
If you’re offering a mix of refreshments, make sure your cup choice won’t let you down mid-pour.
3. Have You Got Matching Lids?
Lids always go faster than expected, or someone orders the wrong size. Double-check your cup measurements and order lids to match.
Going lid-free to save on waste? Great, but make sure you’ve got trays or holders, especially if the event includes walking around.
Pro tip: compostable lids are available too, so you’re not stuck with plastic as the only option.
4. Can You Set Up a Waste Station?
Even with compostable cups, what happens after the drink matters.
If your event is big enough, set up a small waste zone with clear signage. Ideally, separate general waste and compostable waste, and include a note about what can go where.
This small step shows guests you’ve actually thought about the full lifecycle of your materials. (Bonus: if you’re partnering with a waste collection company, ask them to support compostables, many in Ireland now do.)
5. Will the Cups Be on Show?
Are cups part of a drink display? Sitting on a bar or stall? Lined up for attendees to grab?
The look of the cup matters. No one remembers the logo on the bin bag, but they do notice if a business uses compostable cups with a clean, modern design.
Cup Brands cups have a neutral, smart style that fits into any setup. No tacky branding. No weird finishes. Just cups that look as good as they feel.
6. Is It Easy to Reorder?
Last-minute changes happen. People bring a friend. The weather clears up and 100 extra guests show up.
Ordering from an Irish supplier like Cup Brands means fast delivery, reliable stock, and a team who gets what local businesses and organisers actually need.
No overseas delays. No plastic-heavy panic buys the day before. Just cups that work, and that won’t cost the planet in the process.
Final Tip: Don’t Leave It Too Late
Of all the things to scramble for the night before an event, don’t let it be cups.
They may seem small, but they’re literally in people’s hands all day.
Want to get sorted now? Check out our full compostable cup range and tick this off your list early.
