Ah, summer. The season of pool parties and backyard bashes. If you’re the one doing the entertaining this summer, it’s helpful to know how to appropriately stock your home bar. Whether you’re hosting an intimate event for 10 or a much larger affair, read on for insight on how to set up your bar for a party (plus ideas on the bar essentials we’re loving right now).
THE DRINKS
With most groups, you can’t go wrong serving wine. If you offer a red and a white, you’ll have something for nearly everyone’s taste. But how many bottles should you have on hand for your party? Consider this: A bottle of wine will give you about fi e glasses, and most people enjoy one to 1.5 drinks per hour.
When it comes to liquor, one 750 mL bottle yields approximately 16 servings. You’ll want to have at least a bottle or two (possibly more depending on your guest count) of each of these types of liquors: vodka, gin, scotch, whiskey, tequila and rum. If your party is themed, specialty liquors such as sake or raspberry vodka make fun additions.
If you’re serving beer, a good rule of thumb is to offer a 50/50 ratio of light to regular beer. Also, consider whether you want imports or domestics.
Don’t overlook the non-alcoholic drinks – your home bar should also be stocked with soft drinks (diet and regular), club soda, tonic and juice. How much do you need? One liter will usually cover fi e to 10 people depending on the duration of your party.
THE DETAILS
Every well-appointed home bar should have …
1. A SOPHISTICATED COCKTAIL SHAKER.
You can show off your mixing skills and your good taste with this stunner we saw at Nordstrom.
2. A CLASSY BAR SET.
This wine pull and opener we discovered at Bloomingdale’s has a fresh, modern look.
3. A CHIC CHILLER.
You’ll need a spot to stylishly chill your wine, and this stainless steel tub from Pier 1 is one of our favorite ways to do it.
4. A COOL GAME.
Give your guests something fun to do. We love the retro charm of this skeeball game from Restoration Hardware.
5. A GREAT SET OF GLASSWARE.
We love the summery vibe of these coral-themed glasses from Pottery Barn.