by Amanda Gates
Gates Interior Design

In the 50′s, 60′s and 70′s, it was a common practice to have cocktail parties in the home, but as more women climbed the corporate ladder it became less popular to meet at home and more popular to meet at a restaurant or bar.

When the economy started to turn a few years ago many homeowners started to stay home for their entertaining, creating increased interest for retro styled bar carts and chic built-in bars. With more entertaining at home, parties with friends and neighbors is once again in vogue. So whether you choose to use a bar cart or create a small bar in an unused space, here are 11 tips on stocking the perfect five-o’clock bar.

1) Always keep stock of the classics:  vodka, gin, scotch and bourbon.
2) Have a basic red and white wine.
3) Keep a traditional tequila on hand.
4) A nice bottle of Champagne for those unexpected celebrations!
5) Mixers in the cabinet: tonic, club soda, Coke and ginger ale keeps you prepared for any occasion and provides your guests a drink of their preference, making you a successful host.
6) Keep the season in consideration. Refreshing drinks like gin and tonic, or martini’s for summer, and dark liquors like scotch and red wine are popular in winter months.

7) Always have something available that’s enjoyable for non-drinkers. Lemonade, coffee, tea, flavored water, or hot cocoa.

Additional tips for a successful party.
8) Always use glass instead of plastic for drinks.
9) Have small chic plates for small appetizers. Be Clear to your guests
10) Be Clear to your guests what you have available. You can create a fun sign, design an elegant menu, or display the actual bottles, but be sure to have it stocked.

11) Make no apologies for what you don’t have. When people are in your home they expect a common drink that is always served, and the classics will have you covered!

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Amanda Gates

 

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Andrea Hinds
Andrea Hinds
Andrea has always loved the written word. She holds a B.A. in Journalism and a Masters in Creative Writing, both from Belmont University. Both sides of her family have lived in Williamson County for generations, so writing for Williamson Source is the perfect fit. She loves to hear stories of what Williamson County was like when her parents and grandparents were young and to write about this ever evolving county is truly special for her.

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