Bar Cart Beauty: Stocking and Styling Tips
Offering a guest a drink is one of the best ways to start a gathering on the right note. While the tradition of having a bar cart in your home started with Victorian tea trolleys, today it represents a stylish and convenient way to bring the charm of a cocktail bar into your own space.
The end of Prohibition and World War II sparked a resurgence in home bar carts, aligning with a midcentury trend for in-home entertaining. Today, the bar cart is a staple for anyone looking to bring a touch of elegance and hospitality to their home.
Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party or a lively gathering, here are some expert home bar cart tips to help you stock and style your bar cart for maximum impact.
Stocking Your Bar Cart
Essential Spirits: Whiskey, vodka, tequila, gin, and rum.
Mixers: Juices, sodas, bitters, simple syrup, and garnishes.
Tools: Shaker, strainer, mixing vessel, long spoon, ice bucket, tongs, jigger.
Glassware: Rocks glasses, highballs, wine glasses, coupes, and punch bowls.
Comfort First: For cozy gatherings, focus on rich, warming drinks made with brandy, apple cider, or seasonal spices.
Essential Tools: Invest in high-quality bar tools and an ice bucket to facilitate cocktail-making.
Choose Your Glassware: A selection of glassware, including rocks, highball, and coupe glasses, will cover most cocktail needs.
When stocking your bar cart, it’s crucial to have the basics. Start with one bottle of each major spirit to meet your guests’ preferences. You can then add your favorites, like bourbon, scotch, añejo, or reposado. For mixers, keep a variety of juices, sodas, and bitters on hand. Pour these into glass bottles for easy access and a splash of color.
Styling Your Bar Cart
Cocktail Napkins: Add a touch of elegance with well-designed cocktail napkins or coasters.
Fresh Flowers: Bring life to your bar cart with a small bouquet of fresh flowers.
String Lights: Add a cozy ambiance with battery-operated string lights.
Unique Items: Display special pieces like vintage glassware or unique drinkware.
Personal Touches: Include personal items like framed photos, monogrammed coasters, or holiday decor.
Reading Material: Stack a few cocktail books for inspiration and visual interest.
Location, Location, Location: Keep your bar cart in a convenient spot during parties and accessorize with wall art or mirrors to enhance the space.
Start with a statement piece when styling your bar cart—choose a cart that suits your style, whether it’s brass, lucite, glass, or marble. Incorporate clear or textured glasses to catch the light and showcase the drinks. To make it personal, add unique items like vintage glassware or drinkware. Consider including a stack of cocktail books for a touch of sophistication and as a source of inspiration for your guests.
Cheers to a Stylish Home Bar
With these tips, you can create a well-stocked and beautifully styled bar cart that will impress your guests and elevate your home entertaining experience. So, mix up your favorite cocktail, enjoy the company of friends and loved ones, and cheers to a well-crafted home bar!
