For some, planning and hosting a party is pure joy; for others, it’s a mix of excitement and stress, from the initial idea to the last guest’s departure. Entertaining is an opportunity to express your unique style and show love to family and friends. Here are some tips on serving pieces to make it easy and enjoyable.

1. Choose a Theme: We’re focusing on a cocktail party, but any theme can set the tone for your event.
2. Make a Guest List: This helps you estimate the food, drinks, and supplies you’ll need.
3. Take Inventory: Check your current selection of glasses, plates, and serve ware.
4. Incorporate New and Vintage Pieces: Mixing new and vintage elements adds character to your setup. If you have simple white plates or serve ware, add pops of color with vintage china or a unique serving bowl. Vintage cocktail glasses, often with vibrant colors and gold accents, are perfect for a festive holiday vibe.

Vintage treasures might be waiting in your grandmother’s attic, at a local antique shop, or even an estate sale. If you are having a large group, check out renting cocktail glasses or china.

Take a look through the photos to see how we started with a leather ice bucket and switched out glassware to change the vibe effortlessly. One ice bucket, endless possibilities!

Add vintage cocktail glasses to your collection. Here are a few of my favorites.

Anchor Hocking Atomic Arrow Gold Glasses

Anchor Hocking’s Atomic Arrow Gold glasses, often just called “Atomic” glassware, are a well-loved example of mid-century American design that reflects the space-age fascination of the 1950s and 1960s. These glasses are known for their distinctive atomic or “space-age” style, incorporating geometric designs and metallic gold accents. Anchor Hocking Atomic Arrow Gold glasses are highly collectible today among vintage glass enthusiasts and mid-century modern fans. Their unique design and connection to the Atomic Age aesthetic make them desirable for both functional use and as decorative pieces.

Libbey Gold Leaf

The Gold Leaf pattern was introduced in the 1950s, a period when metallic accents and nature-inspired motifs were in vogue. This pattern typically features clusters of leaves in metallic gold, often paired with frosted glass accents that add texture and contrast.

Culver Glasses – My favorite and all are gorgeous!!

Culver glasses became particularly well-known in the 1950s and 1960s, an era when cocktail culture and home entertaining were at their peak. The American public was captivated by luxury and opulence, and Culver’s ornate glassware fit perfectly with this aesthetic.
Culver’s glassware designs often featured 22-karat gold embellishments, applied in bold, layered patterns. These included motifs like leaves, coins, scrolls, Moroccan lattice, Greek key designs, and even geometric patterns with a distinctively mid-century modern flair.

Each glass in a vintage collection brings its own unique flair, adding layers of color, charm, and personality to any gathering. Whether it’s the sparkle of a gold-rimmed glass, the elegance of etched patterns, or the bold pop of retro colors, these pieces can transform an ordinary table setting into something truly memorable. Vintage glassware is not just functional; it’s a conversation starter and a way to showcase your personal style.

So, if you happen to spot some beautiful vintage pieces at an antique store or estate sale, don’t hesitate—snatch them up! Over time, your collection will grow, giving you endless options to mix and match glassware to suit any occasion, theme, or season. You’ll be thrilled to have these one-of-a-kind glasses on hand, ready to add a special touch to your next party.

Cheers to collecting, toasting, and celebrating with timeless style! Here’s to happy, unforgettable entertaining!

The post Mixing New and Vintage for a Cocktail Party appeared first on The Ice Bucket Shop.

Join us for Happy Hours and see the latest fall and holiday goods from 11 of your favorite Milwaukee Small businesses. There will be happy hour specials, wine, food and a fun time with friends!

The owners of these small businesses have become great friends over the past few years and we try to help each other with opportunities and referrals. I wanted to give a shout out to each business and a link to their site in case you are not in Milwaukee or cannot make the party. Support Small business this season!

Margie Edwards Jewelry

Unique, hand-designed, and hand-selected jewelry from around the world. Every piece has been crafted with meaningful intention, from the beads to the pendants. Most importantly, you’ll feel good wearing Margie Edwards Jewelry.

margieedwards.com

Marth-n-Grace

Through the sale of hand made, one of a kind jewelry, as well as fabulous, fun fashions and intriguing home decor, Marth•n•Grace for The Project Grace Foundation Donates 100% of their profit to support advancements in independence, the arts, education and advocacy for individuals with IDD.

marthngrace.com

Pep & Kick

Handmade from the garden, jarred peppers and an everyday spice mix.

Big Cock Candle Co.

Distinctive, provocative and man-crafted to arouse the senses. Our passion is creating hand-poured candles using exotic, bold and alluring fragrance wax blends. Whether your taste is a high-end, sophisticated black Le Grand Coq Candle or prefer the daily burn of our affordable Big Cock Candle line, our highly fragranced, crackling wood wick candles are truly second to none in scent, burn and quality.

bigcockcandles.com

Time Flies

Time Flies is your trusted source for bringing joy to all ages. We specialize in carefully curated toys that inspire creativity, unique gifts that leave lasting impressions, and culinary treats that delight the senses. Whether you are searching for a nostalgic toy, a one-of-a-kind gift, or delicious gourmet delights, Time Flies offers something special for everyone. Step into a world where every moment counts, and discover how we make time fly with our unforgettable products.

timefliestoys.com

Vintage Art Creations

Vintage Art Creations one of a kind, vintage embellished pieces of jewelry.

instagram@vintageartcreations

Lafayette Papers & The Ice Bucket Shop

Lafayette Papers is a one stop shop for personalized stationery, invitations, napkins and  personalized gifts. The Ice Bucket Shop offers Goods for Gatherings for home entertaining and gift giving. It’s the attention to detail that Lafayette Papers and The Ice Bucket Shop provides to elevate your event, reflect your entertaining style, and help to curate a perfect gift to give. We are big fans of small affairs so enjoy our take on festive entertaining! Cheers!  Lafayette Papers will donate 15% of sales during the happy hours to the Junior League of Milwaukee.

lafayettepapers.com     icebucketshop.com

Kate Spitz Photography

Kate is a portrait and small business photographer in Milwaukee who specializes in taking photos that actually feel like who you are.

katespitzphotography.com

Garden Coach

Garden Coach enhances your outdoor space through maintenance and design consultations. Orders for installed seasonal planters will be taken at the Happy Hours.

The post Join us for Fall Happy Hours! appeared first on The Ice Bucket Shop.

1. Define Your Space

Before you start collecting bottles and glassware, figure out where your home bar will live. You don’t need a large area— having a simple bar cart or a repurposed credenza can work wonders. If you have the space, you may want to install a built-in bar with shelves or cabinets to keep everything organized. Either way, your designated area should show off your personal style, whether you decide to go for a sleek, modern set-up or more of a cozy, rustic nook.

2. Gather Essential Bar Tools

To mix a variety of drinks, you’ll need the right tools. A basic bar tool set should include a cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer, muddler, and mixing spoon. These tools are the backbone of any bar and will allow you to make everything from a simple gin and tonic to a more complex cocktail.

3. Stock the Basics

When it comes to setting up your home bar, make sure you stock the basics. Liquor essentials typically include vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whiskey, and vermouth. From there, add liqueurs like triple sec and Campari, which are used in many classic cocktails. Don’t forget mixers like tonic water, club soda, and a selection of juices. Having fresh citrus fruits, bitters, and syrups like simple syrup and grenadine are also key to rounding out your bar offerings.

4. Select the Proper Glassware

Choosing the right glasses to use for drinks is important – the size and shape of glasses has been traditionally used for certain drinks because it enhances the aroma and flavor of the drink inside. This doesn’t mean you have to have a ton of different glasses, but you should have at the bare minimum: highball glasses, lowball glasses, and a set of wine glasses. Once your home bar is established, you may want to consider adding in more specialty glassware.

5. Don’t Forget the Ice

Having an ice bucket for your home bar is an essential part of your home bar, ensuring that you can serve chilled drinks at a moment’s notice! Choose a well-insulated ice bucket with a lid to keep your ice from melting too quickly. This way, you won’t have to constantly refill it or deal with the hassle of fishing out ice cubes from a pool of water. Your ice bucket is a large component of your home bar, so make sure you select one that fits your style. Opt for a dark leather bucket for a sleek, elegant look or a vintage designer ice bucket for more of a classic, timeless look.

6. Personalize Your Home Bar

Add personal touches to your bar area to make it unique. Incorporate décor that reflects your style, like vintage bar signs, a colorful, bold backsplash, or a collection of cocktail books. Plants, artwork, and even a well-chosen tray can add layers of interest. For a more luxurious option, consider installing a wine fridge or a small beer tap with a local craft beer ready to pour. Don’t forget the cocktail napkins specific to the occasion or season!

7. Take Your Budget Into Consideration

If you’re setting up your bar on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save without sacrificing style. A home bar can grow over time – it doesn’t have to be fully stocked from day one. Thrift stores and online marketplaces are great places to find affordable glassware and bar accessories. Remember that your glassware doesn’t all have to match either. Keep an eye out for vintage and thrifted glassware that you can mix and match.

8. Keep it Organized and Clutter-Free

Organization is key to a functional and inviting home bar. Use trays to keep bottles together, have decanters for frequently used liquor, and use shelves to display your glassware. Label drawers or shelves for different categories of items to make your bar easy to use and visually appealing. Regularly restock and clean your bar to keep it ready for last minute get-togethers.

Conclusion

Setting up a home bar is not only about having a place to mix drinks. It’s about creating an inviting space where you and your guests can relax and enjoy good company. When you have the right tools on hand, a stock of essential spirits, and personal touches that speak to your personal style, you end up with a home bar that is functional, stylish, and unique to you. By following these guidelines, your home bar will become a favorite area in your home. It will be the perfect place for entertaining guests or unwinding solo at the end of the day.

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