Serving with Style
As we approach the holiday season, a staple for entertaining is a well-stocked and well-styled bar cart. I have a fool-100- proof formula for showcasing the perfect bar cart that is guaranteed to create a well-rounded look, serving both endless style and delicious refreshments.
Call me Old Fashioned…
First things first — Choose a bar cart that will satisfy your storage and entertaining needs. For instance, wine drinkers might desire a built-in wine rack, while those with limited cabinetry space, may want hanging options for glasses. Another important aspect in considering what bar cart is right for you is function. If you plan on using your bar cart primarily for preparation and serving, consider added countertop space for easy access. If most of the preparation takes place elsewhere, your bar cart can be used for decorative purposes, giving you a much wider selection of sizes and styles to choose from. Deciding functionally first and foremost will make the selection process Easy-Sea-Breezy!
Keep your Gin up…
The top two shelves are a good spot to display beautiful stemware. Funky wine glasses, your grandmother’s collection of vintage goblets, curated glassware from trips abroad–this is their time and place to shine. Consider it a piece of art in your home, and if you’ve been looking for an excuse to stock up on cute glasses, consider this a sign! Most glassware you’ll find is devoid of color but taking the time to find a few statement pieces in brighter hues will instantly make your bar cart stand apart from the others.
A Riesling to be Cheerful…
Next up are pretty bottles of booze. Arrange the most used liquor bottles to be easily accessible, either decanted or not; you choose! Varying heights help with crafting not only beverages, but also with visually pleasing levels. Levels are your design eye’s friend, and your bar cart is no exception. Again, thinking practically, other accessories you might want to include are a bottle opener, ice bucket, a jigger or shot glass, and stir sticks or cocktail spoons. And of course, extra glasses for all your fabulous holiday party guests.
Whiskey Business…
Got mixology books? Use some of your favorite cocktail recipe books stacked on your bar cart so that a wealth of cocktail knowledge will be right at your fingertips if you happen to forget the right way to make a Manhattan. Any elements of books are a perfect addition to your bar cart, as this helps add color and interest. You can stack a few on the lowest shelf or simply put some on the top shelf next to your bar accessories. Try to use books that have colorful spines, are varying widths and heights, and really showcase your personality and home decor style.
Stop and smell the Rosè…
Lastly, leave space for a bouquet of flowers. A vase with greenery is always a good option. I like to add a bowl of a few lemons or limes, not only because they are actually used in cocktails, but also because they add nice color. Consider growing your own specialty herbs, such as rosemary, mint, or basil. The verdant addition will make the space smell wonderful, and you’ll have fresh ingredients for cocktails whenever you need them! The addition of living things feels intentional and will do wonders in making your cart feel like it’s a part of your room’s design.
Drink like there is Pinot tomorrow…
In conclusion, the bar cart has proved that it is no longer just an iconic piece of mid-century Mad Men inspired décor, but that it has completely reinvented itself as a must-have item for entertaining. Using these tips can instantly add dapper vibes to any corner of your home, showing that all spaces can be maximized for both convenience and snazziness.