Entertaining Shop

Bar Cart Styling for Society Social + Entertaining Tips

Posted on March 30, 2017

I’ve been a fan of Society Social since they started, so I was thrilled when they asked me to style my Sedgewick Bar Cart for their Month of the Bar Cart feature, celebrating their collaboration with Lilly Pulitzer.  In the spirit of “it’s 5 o’clock somewhere”, I thought I would share more photos from the shoot plus some styling and entertaining tips!

First, let’s start with the essentials: beverages, garnishes, and drinkware.  You want it to be functional, but not overloaded (it isn’t replacing your liquor cabinet).  And let’s be honest, you want it to look stylish (and mobile too, if needed).  Just have the ingredients for you and your guests’ favorite beverages.  Here is a list of essentials, from which to choose…

Bar Cart Essentials

Liquors:

  • Vodka
  • Whiskey/Bourbon/Scotch
  • Gin
  • Rum
  • Tequila
  • Vermouth
  • Triple Sec

Other Alcohol:

  • Wine
  • Champagne
  • Beer

Mixers:

  • Soda
  • Club Soda/Tonic/Sparkling Water
  • Juice
  • Bitters

Garnishes:

  • Lemons
  • Limes
  • Oranges
  • Cherries
  • Olives
  • Sugar Cubes

Barware:

  • Ice Bucket
  • Decanter
  • Shaker
  • Jigger
  • Muddler
  • Strainer
  • Corkscrew
  • Straws
  • Towels
  • Napkins
  • Tray

Glasses:

  • Highball
  • Double Old-Fashioned
  • Red Wine
  • White Wine
  • Champagne Flutes
  • Martini
  • Mule Mug
  • Margarita
  • Pilsner/Beer Mug

Next, add some pretty décor for a personal touch.  Much like decorating a mantel or bookcase, I always try to have layers of different colors, heights, and textures.  My favorites additions include flowers, books, and candles.

When entertaining, prep ahead as much as possible.  The last thing you want is to feel is stressed because you didn’t finish everything on time or have enough time to get ready.  Enjoy a quiet moment (and a drink) before guests arrive, and you’ll feel ready to set the tone for a fun event!

If you love the idea of a bar cart, but aren’t a huge drinker, you can always make it a coffee bar or end table.

Need help prepping for your next party?  Check out my Styling and E-Design Services.

You can purchase the Sip Sip Hooray Napkins, Mint Julep Cup Vase, Cheers Champagne Flutes, and Shanghai Pagoda Candle in the SHOP.  For other items, shop the look below.

SHOP THE LOOK

Cheers!

 

 

P.S. You can read the feature, Month of the Bar Cart with Real Society Social, Veronica Bradley!, here.