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If there’s one thing you can count on at a party, it’s the fact that everyone will make their way to the bar for a refreshing beverage. Setting a festive display and adding a few special details is simple with these ideas and tips.
I decided to design a bar that would coordinate with my Cocktails & Cheers party. By following the same color scheme and incorporating the felt circle swag & other circle/dot details, the look is modern and whimsical.
I began by setting up a card table and covering it with a fabulous fitted table cover from TableVogue.
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My first tip is to serve juice mixers in pitchers, bottles, or other decanter. This looks so much nicer than having all types of commercial containers on the table.
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For soda mixers, I like to set out smaller size cans or bottles. This way you can store the extras for later, instead of throwing out a half empty 2-liter.
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A little detail to add to your ice bucket is to freeze ice cubes in silicone trays with fun shapes. I used a star shape for this party and added a cranberry to some while keeping others plain.
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I also like to have a savory snack on the bar. It’s nice to have little nibbles while your getting your cocktail or chatting with someone. I made spicy nuts for this table and am sharing the recipe for this slightly sweet, slightly spicy snackhere. Other good choices are chex mix or flavored popcorn.
- My next tip is to add some type of glass garnish whether it’s a wedge of lime, a sugar rimmed edge, or in this case, a mini candy cane hanging off the side. Everyone loves this thoughtful touch.
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Round up your items in trays for an arrangement that looks neat and deliberate. It also helps contain spills or drips.
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Adding playful or humorous cocktail napkins is one of my favorite ways to incorporate personality, and can even help generate conversation.
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Keeping your liquor choices to the basics can keep your budget in check as well as being a space saver. I find that bourbon, vodka, and rum usually satisfy most tastes. For extra options I like to add in a flavored rum such as coconut or spiced rum. All these liquors can be mixed with the same sodas or juices, again minimizing your space and cost.
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One of my favorite ‘special occasion’ projects is making an ice cooler. It’s an impressive presentation but is simple to prepare – you just need a couple of days for freezing. The one I made here holds vodka but you can also make them to hold white wine. You can see the tutorial for the ice cooler here.
I hope these tips will help you organize your next bar set-up. CHEERS!
For more inspiration, follow me on Pinterest, Twitter and Facebook. Cheers!
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About Chris
Nice presentation! I love the ice cooler. My fruit would never freeze so perfectly =)
thanks for all the tips!
Looks great Chris! I love the cranberry ice… so simple but makes a statement. Will have to add this to my Christmas to-do list.
How fun! Those star cubes are perfect.
I'm glad to say I do most of these things with our Christmas bar (the nice decanters, pretty stirrers, Christmas decor and cloth, etc), but you really WOW'd me with the "ice snuggie". I LOVE that! Can't wait for the tutorial.
BTW…LOVE your new profile photo!
Fantastic pictures! I love the use of cranberries in the ice.
You are on a roll, Chris! This is fabulous! Makes me THIRSTYYYY!
The joy of celebrating the season is ooozing from this set up! Great job! Cheers!
Great tips! LOVE everything about your display!
I love it! And hat vodka bottle is goregous!
This is ADORABLE! Love the colors!