Party time: Raising the bar

Champagne bar: Bubbles / flutes / bottles / puree / coasters
Hot coco bar: Mugs / chocolate / serving bowl / caramel mallows / classic mallows / stir

I've mentioned before, that entertaining is one of my favorite things to do and now that Halloween has passed, it's time to get ready for the cocktail party season. Nothing is more fun than walking into a home that has a delicious array of bites and sweets, but what often gets neglected is the bar. Of course, a few bottles of wine and a nice selection of mixed drinks is the perfect way to welcome gets to unwind, but I like to elevate the mixing station and make a spread that is as memorable as the food itself. Invite guests to top off their champagne with fresh fruit purees, sliced strawberries, or a splash of juice with a champagne bar (find purees in specialty stores or blend frozen fruit with sugar syrup). Choose classic glass flutes and arrange the purees in vintage glass bottles. Finish it off with a personalized coaster for a memorable touch. For an all ages approach, instead of passing around mugs of hot chocolate, create a coco station, complete with marshmallow varieties and gourmet chocolate for a luxurious approach to the classic drink. A simple wood stirrer surpasses the plastic party spoon too. These are just a few simple ideas to make a party a little more memorable while, of course, creating amazing cocktails and drinks.