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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. These sweet & spicy pecans are perfect. 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.
- Round up your items in trays for an arrangement that looks neat and deliberate. It also helps contain spills or drips.
- Adding playful or humorous cocktail napkins is one of my favorite ways to incorporate personality, and can even help generate conversation.
- 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.
- One of my favorite ‘special occasion’ projects is making an ice bottle 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.
I hope these tips will help you organize your next bar set-up. CHEERS!
Clicking Chick says
This is ADORABLE! Love the colors!
Simply Creative Insanity says
I love it! And hat vodka bottle is goregous!
Melissa C says
Great tips! LOVE everything about your display!
The Bride's Butler says
The joy of celebrating the season is ooozing from this set up! Great job! Cheers!
Save the Date for Cupcakes says
You are on a roll, Chris! This is fabulous! Makes me THIRSTYYYY!
Tricia @ Vintage No. 35 says
Fantastic pictures! I love the use of cranberries in the ice.
Jonnie Fox says
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!
{ L } says
How fun! Those star cubes are perfect.
Half Baked says
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. 🙂
Sandi says
thanks for all the tips!
Ashleigh Dorfman of posh parties, LLC says
Nice presentation! I love the ice cooler. My fruit would never freeze so perfectly =)