How to Style Your Bar Cart

The bar cart is a fashionable, functional, and efficient use of space. If a full home bar is not in order, these are a great way to add design appeal that can be enjoyed during dinner parties or quiet evenings alike. You don’t even have to be a drinker to appreciate a bar cart, as they work just as well with any type of refreshment, be it mineral water or lemonade. One you’ve picked out your bar cart and chosen the ideal space for it, it’s time to put your design cap on.

Here are a few tips for styling a sophisticated cocktail station in your home!

Personalize

First and foremost, the way you style your bar cart should be a reflection of your preferences and the drinks you plan on making. Consider picking out a theme, like an art deco-style bar cart where you’ll be crafting Old Fashions à la Mad Men or go for a swanky, modern look where you can mix cosmopolitans.

Essential Spirits

Of course, you’ll want to keep your favorite bottles proudly displayed on the top shelf and can place a few other popular choices for guests on the lower shelf. For a crowd-pleasing selection, you should generally have vodka, whiskey, gin, and rum on-hand.

Barware

Put your favorite glassware on full display, be it classic martini glasses or blown glass tumblers. Equally important are all the tools you’ll need for shaking, muddling, and mixing yourself a mean drink. A jigger, paring knife, and bar board are a few of the essential accoutrement.

Mixers and Garnishes

Having a few lemons and limes are practical, of course, but they’re also visually pleasing when used as decorations. Equally important are mixers, like club soda and tonic water, as well as any complementary liqueurs or bitters that you enjoy.

Accessorize

Finally, add a few accessories to round out the look. A cocktail book is always a nice touch and will come in handy when one of your guests asks for that obscure drink that no one’s ever heard of. Plants, small sculptures, or handmade crafts are also popular ways to add a bit more flair to your bar cart.