How to Style the Perfect Home Bar
There’s something irresistibly fun about setting up a bar for a dinner party. It’s equal parts practicality and theatre - a moment of invitation that says, “help yourself, make something you love, and settle in.”
A well-styled home bar doesn’t need to be expensive or elaborate. In fact, it’s often best when it’s a little bit improvised - a collection of pieces you already own, brought together with intention, layers, and a sense of joy.
Start with What You Have
You don’t need a designated bar cart to pull together a beautiful drinks station. A dining sideboard, kitchen bench, console, or even an outdoor table can work perfectly.
Create different levels using what’s around you - a stack of cookbooks or serving boards to add height, a large bowl or tray to ground the scene. It’s all about creating layers that feel collected and lived in.
A few easy styling anchors:
A tablecloth, runner, or tea towel to soften the surface.
A tray or board to corral bottles and glasses.
A vase or basket full of citrus or greenery - practical and beautiful.
Layer in the Details
Think about your bar the way you’d think about a tablescape - layers, texture, and balance. A linen napkin draped over the edge, a small bowl of garnishes, or vintage glassware can bring everything together.
I like to mix practical tools with a few decorative touches:
A breadboard with a small knife for slicing citrus.
A mixing jug or shaker for cocktails.
Charity shop decanters for mixers or premade cocktails - they look beautiful and cost next to nothing.
A small bowl of fresh herbs (mint, basil, thyme) for guests to use as garnish.
A menu card outlining how to make one or two signature drinks.
Set Up a “Make Your Own” Cocktail Station
Letting guests build their own drinks keeps things interactive and takes pressure off the host.
You can pre-batch a few cocktails (like margaritas) and pour them into decanters or glass bottles. Add a handwritten menu with simple ratios - it makes the whole setup feel thought-out and welcoming.
Example:
Margarita (serves 1)
45ml tequila
30ml Cointreau
30ml lime juice
Shake over ice, strain into a glass with a salted rim, garnish with lime or chilli.
Having each guest bring a bottle of their favourite spirit or wine is also a clever way to keep costs down while adding variety - you’ll end up with an eclectic, well-stocked bar by the end of the night. Or be a bit more prescriptive, if you know what cocktails you want to serve, ask someone to bring the gin and another the bring the amaretto!
Don’t Forget the Essentials
A few small things that make a big difference:
A corkscrew (rarely needed these days, but a lifesaver if someone brings a corked bottle).
Plenty of ice - and if you can, opt for cube ice trays (you can find them at Kmart for a few dollars). Bigger cubes melt slower (and they look fab!) which is perfect for cocktails.
A waste bowl or small bin nearby for lime wedges etc.
A napkin or teatowel tucked under a tray to catch drips.
Finish with a Flourish
Once the essentials are in place, have fun with it.
Add a stack of pretty glasses, tuck a sprig of herbs into a bottle neck, or set out a small bowl of nibbles like olives or spiced nuts. Light a candle nearby or dim the lights - you’re creating atmosphere as much as you’re serving drinks.
And most importantly, make sure you have a cocktail in hand before the guests arrive!
Hostess Tip
If you’re hosting outdoors, keep your bar shaded and stocked with extra ice.
Inside, place a small jug of water and a few glasses nearby - it’s thoughtful and always appreciated.
In short: A beautiful bar doesn’t come from what you buy, but how you arrange it. Mix textures, use what you have, and let it feel a little imperfect - that’s where the charm lives.
Some quick recommendations if you are starting from scratch / want to do some updates:
