Winterize Your Beverage Center

The weather is turning - and in some parts of the country, has turned and reared its beautiful (or ugly, if that is your perspective) head once or twice already. 

Sounds like it is time to winterize. Today, we will winterize where you pour that cup of coffee. 

When I designed my kitchen, I knew I wanted a designated area that was for beverages. Keeping in mind I only had a certain amount of space I could work with, I knew that I would have to change it out season by season as I couldn't keep all of our beverages, equipment and accessories all in one place year- round. 

(insert "apology for poor photos/bad lighting" here.)

Anyway, this space is high traffic in our home.  Everyone in our family is here throughout the day, from morning until bedtime, whether it be making a morning pick-me-up, grabbing waters and sports drinks on the way out the door or relaxing in the evening with something to drink.

It was time to put away some of the lingering warm weather options like lemonade mix and other summer mixers and get out the comfort potions and packets. 21-and-over specialty items are kept in a different location upstairs.

• Lots of to-go cups and lids
• Variety of hot chocolates, cider, teas, etc...
• Stir sticks
• Sugar
• Straws
• Creamers
• Flavored syrups
• Mugs
• Water bottles
• Rabbit ears or cork screw
• Bottle opener
• Miscellaneous

 Pile on the marshmallows for the, uh, "kids."

I love our moose bottle opener that we got in Montana years ago.

 Gotta have some biscotti to take with you :)

So...don't have a designated beverage center?  No big deal.  We all have to compromise and use the space we have the most efficient way possible based on the needs of our families. However, this is the time of year when we are putting on our best-host hats and want to make our guests as comfortable as possible, whether they are here for just a few hours, or a week, or longer.  So, in lieu of a permanent space, think about creating a temporary one.

Do you have a cabinet in your kitchen that is storing things that you won't use for the next 8 weeks?  If so, clear it out and stock it up.

How about an entry table, buffet or shelf?  Find a tray, crate or basket and fill it with items from my list or your own list.  Focus on the presentation and who it is you will be serving.  Make it extra special with some cinnamon sticks as a replacement for regular stir sticks.  Just think about creating an inviting space for you and your guests.  If it is a brunch you are hosting, add juices.  If it is an evening event, fill it with cocktail or non-alcoholic treats.  The possibilities are endless.  The key is to designate a space and welcome your guests with free access to comfort and relaxation. 

ENJOY your beverage and ENJOY your guests!

I had two features today!

Beth at Home Stories A To Z chose Joey's headboard as one of her favorites of the week. 

Kammy at Kammy's Korner highlighted Adel as one of her top picks!

Much thanks to both! The validation is really appreciated. 

Finally, my BLOGROLL page is now up to date.  Check it out!


Have a terrific Tuesday!



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