Bar cart ready
for any party or spontaneous hosting
The thrill of inviting an unannounced guest in for a drink or volunteering to host an unplanned afterparty can quickly turn to dread when you realize your cabinets are empty and your bar cart is dry. Never be caught off guard again and always be prepared to host with our guide to stocking your bar cart for spontaneous hosting.
Ice:
Ice is the foundation of quickly throwing together an event. Keep a bag of ice in the freezer at all times or make sure your ice machine bucket is full.
SodaStream ® Sparking Water Maker:
Giving your guests a custom beverage will make you look like the ever-ready host, and no one lets you customize like the SodaStream® ecosystem. Pick any of the world-class SodaStream sparkling water makers and customize the level of fizz and flavor to truly make your invitees feel appreciated.
CO2:
Carbonation will bring your drink creations to life, so make sure you are stocked up on CO2. We suggest having at least 3 SodaStream CO2cylinders . That way you can send 2 back for refills while enjoying the 3rd – meaning you never run out of bubbles. SodaStream® has one of the best CO2 exchange network in America with tons of different ways to refill in-person or online.
Flavors:
Using SodaStream Crafted™ Cocktail Mixers or SodaStream flavor bottles make things effortless. Simply fizz, mix, and enjoy. Keep backup variety packs of SodaStream Crafted™ Cocktail Mixers or bubly™ drops on your bar cart to make sure you’ve got something for everyone. SodaStream flavor bottles are compact with just one bottle making about 24 drinks**, saving you space, time, and cleanup.
Spirits*:
Vodka, tequila, and whiskey are great base spirits to launch tons of delicious cocktails. Additionally, grab a bottle of bitters and a bottle of vermouth to give you the most versatility for your last-minute mixology.
Tools:
Make sure you’ve got a few tools to help make your event look like it’s been planned for months. Try SodaStream’s 6-piece Mixology Kit that includes everything you would need: a cocktail shaker, double-sided dosing jigger, cocktail stirrer, 2 stainless steel ice spheres, and muddler.
Glassware:
The right glass for the right cocktail/mocktail can really upgrade an impromptu party, so try and have a variety of sizes on-hand. For beginners, get a mix of Collins/highballs, old fashioned glasses, and a few coupes. This variety will make sure you’ve got something for everyone and any drink they ask for.
Garnishes:
Limes are your most high-milage garnish ingredient. Lime wedges or juice enhance nearly any cocktail/mocktail. Oranges, mint, grapefruit, and lemons are all also great ingredients to have on hand. If you are hosting often, having a variety of fresh herbs to use as garnishes and ingredients can really take your mixology to the next level.
Snacks:
Don’t let your guests go hungry. Keep a backup supply of non-perishable, salty snacks on hand to easily put in a bowl and be ready to serve. Jarred olives, cornichons, and jalapenos can double as cocktail/mocktail garnishes, but it’s also smart to have some crunchy classics like chips and nuts.
Recipe cards:
Learn a few signature sparkling cocktail recipes so you feel confident quickly throwing together something delicious for your unexpected guests. Browse our library of recipes for inspiration and step-by-step guides to classic and fresh beverages. Think about printing or writing a few recipes on cards so you always have a guide to help with your hosting.
Conclusion:
If you can keep most of the above stocked, you will be more than prepared for any unannounced visitor or spontaneous soiree. Having this supply will allow you to quickly and easily offer any guest a cocktail or mocktail served up fresh, just how they like it.
*This content is intended for viewers 21+. Please drink responsibly. Excessive drinking can be harmful to your health. Never drink and drive. This content is not intended for readers under the legal drinking age.
**When prepared according to instructions, makes equivalent to 24 –12fl oz cans.
