There's a lot more to the holidays than just opening up presents. (Though, don't get us wrong, a great gift is always appreciated.) Whether you're reuniting with your coworkers [1] or flexing your hosting muscle [2], this time of year is all about celebrating. And, what better way to do so than with a tasty beverage in hand?
The good news is that Nordstrom's home section [3] — which is packed with cute glassware, bottle openers, and tasty ingredients — makes it easy to stock your bar cart in style. Whether you prefer handcrafted cocktails, mocktails, or a delicious glass of wine, the 14 bar cart essentials below are certainly worth toasting to. Take a look.
Shaken, Not Stirred: Zone Denmark Rocks Cocktail Shaker
Behind every delicious cocktail is a really good shaker. And, if it looks good, too? Even better. Fortunately, this Zone Denmark Rocks Cocktail Shaker [5] ($70) offers the best of both worlds — and will look like a fancy-shmancy sculpture when idle.
Back to the Basics: Fortessa Crafthouse 4-Piece Cocktail Shaker Set
Or, if you're a mixology novice, you might need to pick up the basics. Reach for this Fortessa Crafthouse 4-Piece Cocktail Set [6] ($130), which includes a shaker, jigger, strainer, and muddler. (You know, just in case you want to make a mojito.)
Some Bubbly: Teaspressa 18-Piece Luxe Bubbles Mimosa Sugar Cube Set
Looking for a beverage that appeals to all the senses? Teaspressa's 18-Piece Luxe Bubbles Mimosa Sugar Cube Set [7] ($30) not only fizzes in your liquid of choice — sparkling wine and seltzer are our faves — but it also tastes delicious.
Gorgeous Glasses: Riedel Performance Set of 2 Chardonnay Glasses
There's no such thing as too many wine glasses. The drinkware brand Riedel that is spotted all over wine country, so this Set of 2 Performance Set Chardonnay Glasses [8] ($69) will not disappoint.
Sip and Save: Coravin Pivot Wine Preservation System
Speaking of wine-lovers, this Coravin Pivot Wine Preservation System [9] ($99) will totally change how you drink your vino. This clever gadget lets you pour your wine without puncturing the cork. (We know, it's basically magic.) That way, that prized bottle of sauv blanc will last a lot longer in your fridge.
Infinity Stones: ANNA New York Vida Whiskey Stones
Very few things can cramp a stiff helping of scotch like a bunch of ice cubes that have melted over time. Think of these ANNA New York Vida Whiskey Stones [10] ($145) as the best of both worlds: they'll keep your drink cold without watering it down.
Mixology Marvel: Ethan+Ashe Alkemista Infusion Vessel & Cocktail Blend Starter Kit
Bring a "wow" factor to your next party with this Ethan+Ashe Alkemista Infusion Vessel & Cocktail Blend Starter Kit [11] ($90), which gives you everything you need to make an infused blend. And — with flavours like Rose Lemon Gin, Zen Jardin, and Ancho Libre — your guests will be asking for seconds.
Stunning Swirl: Swarovski Jungle Beats Set of 4 Cocktail Stirrers
Whether you want to give your mocktail a quick stir or want to add some stuffed olives to your martini, these Swarovski Jungle Beats Set of 4 Cocktail Stirrers [12] ($85, originally $115) will give any drink an Insta-ready touch.
Spot the Difference: GOODEE x Graf Lantz Wine-Otes Wine Glass Markers
A wine night in is fun until you accidentally grab your best friend's partner's glass. (Awkward!) But, thanks to GOODEE x Graf Lantz's Wine-Otes Wine Glass Markers [13] ($28), you won't have to worry about cross-contaminating the Chardonnay.
Chic Coupes: VIETRI Gatsby Champagne Coupe Glass
It's official: this VIETRI Gatsby Champagne Coupe Glass [14] ($24) is just as enticing as whatever you pour into it. The magic lies in the whimsical, mercury glass exterior.
For Your Ice: S'well Ice Bucket & Tongs Set
Anyone who prefers their beverages ice-cold will find a lot to love about S'well's Ice Bucket & Tongs Set [15] ($50). This marbled pick uses S'well's signature double-walled, condensation-free construction to keep those cubes in tip-top shape for hours on end.
A Stylish Opener: ferm LIVING Fein Bottle Opener
Is it just us, or is ferm LIVING Fein Bottle Opener [16] ($29) the chicest bottle opener you've ever seen?! (It's like practical art!) Cracking open a cold one has never been so fabulous.
Mix and Match: Portland Soda Works Set of 2 Cocktail/Soda Mixers
In the words of Ina Garten, store-bought is fine! That's exactly why you should stock your cart with Portland Soda Works' Set of 2 Cocktail/Soda Mixers [17] ($28). Though the brand has a bunch of different flavours, you can't wrong with a classic tonic.
Fancy Fabric: Farmhouse Pottery Set of 4 Dot Cotton Cocktail Napkins
Every pro host knows that no bar cart is complete without some tiny accoutrements. Give your next soiree a classy spin with these Farmhouse Pottery Set of 4 Dot Cotton Cocktail Napkins [18] ($48), which you can use over and over again.