How to Set Up a Hot Beverage Bar for a Party

A hot beverage bar is a great addition to any brunch entertaining or dessert party at home.

Hot Beverage Bar for Entertaining

I was thrilled to create a party project for Better Homes and Gardens‘ blog this season. It was a partial dream come true to create this for BHG; the REAL dream is to have something in their print publication!

See more ideas and tips to set up a coffee bar here.

I designed a holiday hot bar that’s perfect for open-house style entertaining. You can see the full story on Delish Dish, but first check out some photos and tips below.

Design Tips for a Hot Bar

• Use a neutral style wrapping paper as a backdrop to help set the tone. This birch-look paper is from Pier 1 and adds a rustic feel to this display.
• Use garland to soften the edges. I placed my mantel garland from last year, in the background of the buffet to create a transition between the table and the wall. The “nature” aspect of it also coordinates with the “birch” paper.
• Mix the old and the new. Here, I used vintage shakers for hot beverage toppings, as well as a vintage mail holder for caramel wafer cookies. These are placed alongside modern white serving dishes and a glittery banner.
• I made a doughnut hole “Christmas tree” by wrapping a foam cone with a piece of the birch paper. This protects the food & foam from one another, and is a lovely visual once the doughnut holes are removed. Regular toothpicks hold the doughnuts onto the cone.
• Use whole coffee beans as part of the decor like I did here. It gives off a wonderful aroma and is theme-oriented.

See more ideas and tips for creating a coffee bar.

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