The perfect home bar

Everything you need to turn a house party into a night to remember.

 

Written by Tshiamo Seape

 

There’s nothing quite like a house party. Hosting an intimate function with the homies is unmatched – no lines to get in, no cover charge, the best guest list and having full control of the playlist are just a few of plenty reasons why partying at home is the M.O. of many during the holiday season.

With that being said, it’s important to be prepared. Just because it’s a party for your friends, it doesn’t mean you can’t put on a good show. We share a few tips and tricks to help you become the host with the most this summer.

 

Hit the beat

Nothing sets the mood like a great playlist. Have music playing on arrival so that people feel like they’ve entered an energetic and upbeat event – even if it’s a super casual get together you want your guests to feel like they are in for a good time.

 

Ice, ice, baby

It may seem like a no-brainer, but nothing ruins a day (or night) faster than running out of ice and serving lukewarm drinks. Guarantee that your drinks are perfectly chilled by keeping them in the fridge or an ice bucket and ensuring that guests have access to as much ice as they may need. Whether they’re into hard liquor, wine or beer, or even if they’re teetotal, everyone wants to sip on something chilled.

Variety is the spice of life

And speaking of sipping… The next essential is the drinks. You’re not expected to cater for everyone’s exact preference, but ensure that you have a few options available – white and red wine, beers, gin, whisky, vodka and some mixers, as well as soft drinks for those who are going alcohol-free. Easy-to-make cocktails are a great arrival drink to get guests in the party spirit.

The Mojito is an iconic Cuban cocktail that is refreshing and brilliantly balanced with lime, rum, sugar, soda water and fresh mint. 

A modern classic, the Aperol Spritz combines bubbly, Aperol and soda water for a citrusy, herbal, and subtly bitter summer sipper. 

And then there’s the OG – the Margarita. Made with tequila, lime, rum and a salt rim it is absolute perfection!

 

Comfort is key

Make sure that guests have enough space to move around (rearrange some of your furniture if need be) and also that there is ample seating for when they just want to chill.

Keep a few throws or light blankets on hand if the wind comes up and the weather turns awry. A drinks party doesn’t need to be fully catered, but be certain to have a few snacks (like crackers, nuts, and crisps) available to munch on.

 

Hosting a party at your house needn’t be stressful – and it shouldn’t put too much strain on your budget either. It’s perfectly normal to ask guests to bring along a drink and snack of their choice to add into the mix.

Most of all – party responsibly, and have fun!