The holidays are nearly upon us, and now is the perfect time to prepare our homes for entertaining guests.  Without a doubt, a simple bar – or beverage station –  is a necessity for unexpected visitors and pre-planned gatherings alike.

So, what are the items you will need to create a drinks table for your guests? Although you may choose to stock your bar with whatever liquors, wines, mixers, coffees, teas, or soft drinks you prefer, there are a few key items that will pull your look together with a stylish flair.

First, I always start with a fabulous tray! Think of this tray as the “foundation” of your bar, and choose it carefully. Consider the style of the room in which you are locating your drinks table, and ask yourself if the tray fits with the rest of the space.  Is it casual, formal, modern, traditional, funky? Also, is the tray large enough to accommodate all of the items you plan to place on it? Your drinks tray should be generous in size and should set the “tone” of your bar.

Next, a bar should always display one or more decanters, servers, or pitchers for the drinks you plan to offer your guests. Whether you prefer mixed drinks, coffee, wine, or tea, select serving containers that are both beautiful and functional. In addition, if your beverages of choice require ice, don’t forget to incorporate an ice bucket into your design.

Tea cups, wine glasses, high balls, or coffee mugs…. whatever is the appropriate choice for your drinks table should be on-hand to serve your visitors on short notice.

Add linens and/or paper products to your display. Cocktail napkins are a requirement at any beverage table. In addition, I also like to include a decorative or elegant bar towel to my display. (Don’t forget to stop by Knotting Hill Interiors to check out our many options for fabulous trays, linens, decanters, and glassware!)

Remember to decorate your drinks station just as you would anything else in your home. Choose a fabulous focal point, vary your heights and textures, and select pieces that are both lovely and useful. Choose accents that complete your look but are not so overwhelming that they distract from the overall display.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO MAKE YOUR HOME EVEN MORE FABULOUS, CONTACT ME FOR AN IN-HOUSE OR ONLINE CONSULTATION AT KIMBERLY@KNOTTINGHILLINTERIORS.COM

NOW, GO HAVE AN “It’s So Fabulous!” DAY!