We linger in the kitchen most nights, but as we get closer to the holidays and do more entertaining indoors, I want a dedicated space for cocktails and conversation when guests are here. My initial plan was to search for a vintage bar cart, but the more I thought about it, did I need another piece of furniture in this house? I’ve lived in small spaces and I know the value every square inch holds, which is why I’m approaching this a bit differently. One might say I’ve got a novel solution to the classic bar cart (I couldn’t help myself). 

Elevate your barware and integrate it into your current decor just like you would any piece of art, vase, or photo. All you need is a shelf, mantle, or in my case, an existing bookshelf. 

These are essential items that will add beauty and function to any bar:

• Cocktail Shaker – This is a must! There’s something inherently quintessential about owning a cocktail shaker. I feel more legit using one when preparing a drink. The Elevated Cocktail Shaker can mix up to four drinks at a time and can hold up to 750ml to take on the go! 
• Martini Glasses – The iconic shape of the Nude Glass Martini Glasses are a thing of beauty. 
• Low Ball Glasses – Perfect for any spirit on the rocks or a mixed cocktail, the Whiskey Peaks Glasses feature a topographic impression of Zion National Park. They provide the unexpected wow factor that sparks conversation. 
• Bottle Opener – I selected the Cast Iron Fish Bottle Opener. It adds just the right amount of quirk and character. 
• Decanter – Any liquid looks better outside of the original bottle. The handblown Whiskey Peaks Mountain Decanter is a stunner. 
• Tonics and Mixers – My bartending skills are limited, which is why I use premade syrups and tonics. Jack Rudy Tonics are small batch and add the right balance of flavor to cocktails. 

I love the idea of a speakeasy, having everything you need right at your fingertips without taking up any additional floor space. My new library setup is the closest I will get to having secret doors and false walls in this house. 

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Here are a few essential recipes every host should know:

Martini

This recipe will make a jug to have on hand for entertaining.

Ingredients

• Gin
• Dry vermouth
• Green olives

Steps

1. Add 15 ounces of gin to a pitcher.
2. Add 3 ounces of dry vermouth.
3. Stir the mixture with a large bar spoon.
4. Place in the fridge until it’s time to serve.
5. Pour about 3 ounces of martini into chilled glasses, and garnish with green olives.

Old Fashioned – with or without alcohol

(Want to skip the recipe? Look no further than this Old Fashioned Cocktail Syrup.)

Ingredients

• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 teaspoon water
• 2 ounces bourbon – Old Forester is my spirit of choice (or Spiritless Kentucky 74 if you are abstaining).
• Garnish: orange peel

Steps

1. Add the sugar and bitters to a rocks glass, add the water, and stir until the sugar is nearly dissolved.
2. Fill the glass with large ice cubes, add the bourbon, and gently stir to combine.
3. Express the oil of an orange peel over the glass, then drop in.

With this new library bar setup, all I need to bring is ice. What are some of your favorite cocktails or mocktails I should try?

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