Whether you're entertaining for a special occasion or devoting a corner to your favorite cocktails, a bar cart is an essential piece that should be in every hostess' arsenal when called into drink duty.
Inspired by Chairish, a vintage marketplace with plenty of home bar accessories, today I'm sharing a few essentials you need to start the perfect home bar.
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It's all about quality not quantity, you can always add to it over time as you build up your collection. By no means is this a comprehensive list, but just my thoughts and what I do myself.
First, a few of my personal tips for stocking your bar cart...
- I only buy stuff I like to drink. I know, experts say you should have a well-rounded stock of alcohols, liqueurs, etc. However, it's the style and size of your party that will determine what you serve. I only know a few drink recipes and tend to find new recipes with alcohols I am familiar with, like vodka. Serving a signature cocktail or two is my favorite party trick.
- Certain essentials (flat and sparkling water, sodas and lemons and limes) are a must in every home bar. With my bad tooth, I need my fruity cocktails that need simple syrups or liqueurs. When entertaining, I love creating an area for guests to create their own cocktails so keeping my bar stocked with familiar items makes it easier for them.
- If you do have a DIY cocktail area, be sure and have recipe cards or a drink menu they can follow, like I did at my RIPE cocktail party.
- It's not a party without garnishes! From fruit slices, fresh herbs and rimmers to swizzle sticks, paper straws and drink markers, they take a fabulous drink to a whole new level. Your fridge should always have staples like maraschino cherries, olives, and cocktail onions.
Here's the breakdown of my party on wheels...
The Cart
After patiently waiting for an affordable yet fabulous bar cart, the heavens opened and Target's gold Threshold bar cart became my best investment. Mine serves as pretty storage when not in party use.
The Tools
At a minimum, every hostess should have a ice bucket, shaker and bar tools. I've had mine so long, I can't remember where mine are from but here are some other options; vintage Italian ice bucket | Duke stainless steel cocktail shaker | stainless-steel bar tools
Bowls and trays
Bowls and trays serve double duty for holding garnishes and snacks and bringing visual interest to your bar cart. Luxe Moderne small trophy bowl | Luxe Moderne hexagonal tray
Glassware
From martini and wine glasses to shot glasses and highballs, there are a plethora of glassware to choose from. I myself, have a ridiculous amount that I won't embarrass myself and share how many...but I have been collecting them for years. My blue tumblers are a vintage find but these Punto Moroccan Glasses are a great option. I have traditional champagne flutes and recently acquired Luxe Moderne flutes as a fun alternative.
I don't have a decanter...acquiring a few is on my wishlist...so Mad Men and glamorous. | Gold Luster Decanter
Finishing touches
Whether you choose to use paper or cloth cocktail napkins, you should always have a stash. And paper straws. metallic paper straws | Coral Trio cocktail napkins
Need more bar cart inspiration? Check out my posts on a girls' night out cocktail party, how to create a Bloody Mary bar and 10 ways to style a bar cart, including clever options if you don't have a bar cart.
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