How to Set Up a Bar for a Party

You’ve decided on your venue and catering, but there is one other thing you need to nail down before your party – the bar. First thing first, are you going to have a full far? Or just serve wine and beer? Once you determine that, you need to verify with your bartenders what they will be providing vs what you will need to provide for the bar.

To ensure we don’t miss a thing, we’re going to detail everything you may need for a full bar, where your bartender isn’t providing anything except their time. Of course, depending on your situation, you can pull back on what you provide. Let’s dive in!

Bar Equipment

Obviously, you need a bar top to be able to offer a bar service. While a table will technically work, you should expect people to lean against it, and a table won’t be sturdy enough. Instead select something with a little more weight – like our practical Party Pony Trailer.

You will also need a way to keep the drinks cool. You can use an ice chest, portable back bar, or zinc bath to keep necessary alcohol, club soda, and water chilled. Before deciding on your method of cooling, double check with your bartender to see if they have a preference. 

Bar Accessories

Besides the alcohol, there are quite a few things your bartenders will need to customize your guests’ drinks.

Bottle Openers: Needed for all of your beer offerings, there should be at least one bottle opener for every bartender, but ideally a few extra.

Corkscrews: You’ll need to open those wine bottles somehow! Make sure you have at least one per bartender, more if your guests prefer wine to other drinks. 

Cutting Board and Knife: If your cocktails have garnishes, they should be prepared before the bulk of your guests arrive. Whether it’s dicing herbs or chopping fruit, a cutting board and knife are necessary bar tools. 

Ice Bucket & Ice Scoops: Of course you need an ice bucket and a scoop or tongs to add ice to your cocktails. Having an ice bucket keeps the ice you put in drinks fresh and uncontaminated. 

Shakers: Most mixed cocktails require a shaker to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Keep multiple at your bar so you have time to rinse them out between drinks. 

Muddler: Depending on the types of cocktails you’re expecting to prepare you may need a muddler or two to crush fruit and herbs before you pour the drink over them. 

Towels: Making drinks can be messy! With melting ice and a lot of liquids, having plenty of towels is a necessity. 

There is a lot that goes into putting a bar together for a party! Make your life easier by choosing Party Pony Trailers for all of your party bar needs. Not only do we provide the actual bar, but our bartenders come fully equipped with all the accessories needed to make your guests’ favorite drinks. Give us a call today!