Bar basics

Once you've decided on the bar, move on to the fun stuff -- stocking it up. Oh, the places you'll shop…

The stemware
What you need depends on what you have to offer. If that's mostly wine and beer, get glasses to match. But if you have the room and desire for specialty drinks, you'll need to expand your options. Some basics:

• Martini glasses
• High rollers (for Tom Collins, Long Island Iced Tea)
• Small tumblers (for the uncomplicated visitors who need a Scotch on the rocks, say)
• Champagne flutes (if you're celebrating with serious toasts)

The equipment
A corkscrew and bottle opener, measuring cup, measuring spoons and a jigger are necessary, of course, but you can step it up a notch with a few extras: A martini shaker; a blender for cold, frothy drinks; paring knives for garnishes; a cutting board; an ice bucket; and a salt or sugar rimmer.

The alcohol
Ah, let the games begin! Depending on your taste, stocking up all at once could put a dent in your pocket. So as with your imbibing, take it slow -- a well-stocked bar can take years to build and only gets better with age. Here's what you should consider working toward:

• Keep a selection of beer, some standard domestic varieties and a few imported options, as well as some white and red wine.

• Vodka (for a Bloody Mary, martini, Salty Dog), gin (gimlets, gin and tonic), Scotch (Rob Roy, Rusty Nail) and rum (daiquiris, mai tais) are basics of many drinks -- for a selection of easy-to-follow recipes, visit cocktailtimes.com.

• For the end of the night, have a sweet liqueur on hand (Grand Marnier and flavoured brandy go down smooth).

The mix
Cola and soda, sparkling and tonic water are staples. Fruit juice (lemon, lime, orange, pineapple, cranberry) and some tomato juice or V8 will help, too.

Garnish
Lemons, limes, olives and mint should get you through any event nicely (and throw in a bottle of maraschino cherries just for the kitsch factor).

Read more in Food & Entertaining and Party Planner