As the end of my work week approaches, the bottle of Aperol Spritz on my bar cart seems to be calling my name… Friday, can you please hurry up?!
My bar cart has become an absolute staple in my life. It’s perfect for when my friends come over for a cocktail. It stores a bunch of my knick knacks, glassware and bottles. And it looks REALLY cute in my living room.
It’s become an important piece of my overall living room decor and a value-add piece that’s here to stay!
Perfectly styling a bar cart has practically become an art form. One that took me plenty of experimentation and trial and error to get right. I’m here to save you some major time and let you in on my best kept secrets for styling your bar cart.
I’ll break my tips down by some of my favourite items to use on your bar cart and tell you how to style them for a functional and uniquely beautiful look.
And yes, these tips can apply to a bar cabinet just as easily as if you are styling a bar cart.
Images via Pinterest.
Bottles and Glassware
Let’s focus on function first.
And this one might be kind of obvious, but using a few bottles and some glassware is essential for your bar cart. Now, you don’t have to showcase every…single…bottle… you have.
I suggest selecting a few that you like the look of, and try looking for bottles of varying height, shape and maybe even colour to create some interest.
You can also use decanters and try to vary them in heights and shape if you can. Avoid using matching sets as much as possible.
The same goes for glassware, you don’t want to clutter the cart with every piece you have. Try using 4 or 6 pieces of glassware, and grouping them for presentation sake.
Colourful glassware is really on trend right now, so don’t be afraid to buy something funky, if you’re in the mood to treat yourself this holiday season.
Images via Pinterest.
Tools of the Trade
Of course you’re going to need some fancy tools to make cocktails. Or maybe even some mocktails.
Consider things like a shaker, a strainer, mixing spoons, a bowl to hold garnish, an ice bucket and practically anything else you need to make the perfect drink. Having them all in one place will make it easier when it comes time to make a great cocktail.
Cocktail culture has become very popular in the last few years, so finding these products has become very easy, and there’s loads of variation out there.
You can buy a matching set (this is one of the few times I’m in favour of matching sets!) or create a collection from different places you’ve visited around the world.
I also like putting my coasters on my bar cart with some brightly coloured napkins or a pretty jar holding some straws (reusable straws that is).
A bar cart is a great way to keep all your entertaining items organized in one place.
Images via Pinterest.
Recipe Books
Now, it may seem a little odd to put some recipe books on your bar cart but I promise there’s a good reason for it. For one thing, it’s going to be really handy to find a new cocktail recipe to try if you have your recipe books easily accessible.
And styling a bar cart is a lot like styling a shelf. Variety is key to making it interesting. The recipe books will create visual variety on your cart and make everything look that much more elevated.
Coffee table books will also work great here.
Images via Pinterest.
Florals
I like to add one really nice vase filled with florals, dried or real, whatever you prefer! Personally, I always prefer the real deal and my go to is anything pink or white in season and accented with some beautiful greenery.
Florals will add another hit of variation to your cart, making it look super curated. This is also a great hack because you can change out your vase and florals based on the season or the party!
For example maybe during the summer and fall you’ll want to incorporate a light, natural pampas grass. But perhaps during the holidays, you can switch that out for some cedar, pine or whatever puts you in the holiday spirit! Ooh, you can even add a string of light to your florals for some extra pizazz for a holiday party.
Images via Pinterest.
Fillers and Fun Stuff
Now, for the fun little add-ons. One of my favourite parts of decorating my bar cart is adding in little filler pieces to bring the design together.
You can get really creative with a bar cart and use anything that suits your needs and taste. Think like you’re decorating a shelf.
I like using regular home decor items like candle holders, statues, planters, bowls and vases. You can fill bowls and vases with lemons, limes or even Christmas tree ornaments. If you’re getting ready for a party, add a bowl filled with mixed nuts or something your guests can munch on with their drinks.
Use trays to create groups of items.
Images via Pinterest.
Wall Art & Mirrors
Now that your bar cart is filling up with beautiful things, let’s not ignore the area surrounding the bar cart.
If your bar cart is positioned against a wall, consider some wall art or a mirror to create interest and draw the eye up.
You can hang a piece of art on the wall behind the cart or lean up the artwork on the cart itself. I love finding cute cocktail posters that are bright, trendy and match the rest of my vibe!
Now you’re on your way to creating a little bar area in your space, instead of just a cart.
If you have the room, consider a potted plant next to the bar cart or even a floor lamp. Like everything in design, when you layer items together it will add more interest to the space.
Images via Pinterest.
A bar cart is such a fun piece of decor to add to your space. It’s functional and also allows you to get creative and make a setup that is personalized to you.
There are no strict rules when it comes to decorating your bar cart, but by using some of these ideas and inspiration, your bar cart will surely look unique and well curated.
With the holiday season quickly approaching, now is the perfect opportunity to invest in a bar cart (or a cabinet), and get to decorating.
Cheers, I’m raising a glass to you!
