Holiday Bar Cart How-To

Gorgeous, shiny looks aside, there’s a variety of roles that a cute bar cart can play in your home… But if you’re anything like me, you’re looking to stock yours with loads of style and lots liquor for the holiday season.

I mentioned this in Tuesday’s post, but I’m hosting a little holiday gathering tonight.

While my apartment looks like an actual f’ng mess is larger than it was in New York, it’s still on the small side… And I’ve always wanted to have a bar cart — I’ve just never had the “right” space for it. You know?

There’s something so awesomely old school about a well-stocked bar cart. I mean, how cool to be able to offer your guests a cocktail of their choice the moment they enter your home?

Plus, it’ll make you feel like the hostess with the mostess — even if you’re not lifting a finger. (Because you’ve prepped those Cranberry Christmas Cocktails ahead of time, right?)

In spite of my closer quarters, I started the hunt for a bar cart that’s portable, cute and stylish. (You can also use your coffee table, as you’ll notice when you continue scrolling.)

I finally settled on this one from CB2. I love its pretty, slim lines — and the fact that it’s less than $80. Plus, I knew the rose gold hardware would look really cute with the new limited edition Absolut Electrik bottles (in silver and blue) that I’d received to stock the bar with.

Now, shopping-wise: If you’re looking to make a smaller investment (something portable but still nice-looking), go with CB2.

If you’ve been wanting a bar cart for a while, though, and are willing to pay a little more for the perfect piece for your space, shop One Kings Lane. Their metallic bar carts are absolutely gorgeous. If (and when) I have the space, I’d get this one. Target also has some really awesome options, ranging in price from affordable to splurge-worthy.

*Browse more bar carts:

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More specifically, if you have a smaller apartment or living space, like mine, there’s a few ways I’d suggest creating a bar cart in your home for easy-and-stylish holiday entertaining:

1. Invest in one that’s portable. This one can be stored away easily when you’re done with it — or, you know, it can just follow the party wherever it migrates.
2. Don’t want to buy one? Easy! Use your coffee table (like I’ve done in this post), kitchen counter or somewhere that’s easily accessible. The party may start in the kitchen, but it doesn’t usually stay there.
3. Just have the right fixings on display… That’s what really matters, right

… And with that, here are some of suggestions for keeping a well-stocked bar cart:

• Basic booze: Absolut Electrik
• Bonus booze: Prosecco (chilled) and an elderflower liqueur
• Mixers: soda water, tonic water, bitters, juice, sliced lemon & lime
• Musts: cocktail shaker, strainer, jigger, bottle and corkscrew opener
• Glasses: highball, wine & rocks glasses
• If you’ve got room: decanter, wine bucket, ice bucket and tongs

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Are you entertaining this holiday season? What’s a must-have in your bar cart?

*In this post:

decor

Bar cart: CB2 acrylic folding tray
Red candle: Archipelago (comes in more colors)
“Thankful for” sign: Nordstrom (under $10)
Throw pillows: c/o Deny Designs (30% off your purchase!)

bar items

Absolut Electrik
Cocktail glasses: CB2
Stainless steel serving tray: CB2

*Shop the trend: Cute bar carts (below; price shown on hover):

Buy at: CB2 | One Kings Lane | Target
Hallie’s picks: Metal and wood bar cart ($129), Acrylic folding tray ($79),
Constantine gold bar cart ($349)

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Iron & Honey Photography

In partnership with Absolut. Enjoy responsibly!