The Bartending Tools You Never Knew You Needed!
From personal party pad to thriving mobile bartending business.
~As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.Whether you are joining the industry of mobile bartending or you are planning to host a private event for some friends and want to know your stuff, it’s important to have the right tools!
This does not mean you have to spend tons of money. In reality, a few simple tools will get you off to a good start. I’ve created a list of all the items that I personally use to run my business!
These are tools that you might not realize were super important until you’ve tried to open your hundredth twist or pop-top of beer, sliced your hand on a metal wrapper for a wine bottle, or feel like the line at the bar is never-ending from the cups being too small!
Whatever the issue, I can guarantee there is a solution right around the corner and it starts with being prepared! Here is my list of must-have bartending tools at different price points to meet your needs!
Cocktail Shaker Set
A Bartender Cocktail Shaker Set! These are great on so many levels! I love that I get at least one of everything I need. I am all about presentation so when I see it in a compact yet eye-appealing bamboo stand I get super excited!
This one is super cost-effective and has everything you need to get your feet wet and still look like the pros! If you prefer more variety at a higher price point this second option is also perfect because it includes a recipe book, stand, and carrying bag!
This shaker set comes in a variety of colors as well if you want something unique or want more than one!
All Kinds of Bottle Openers
Bottle Openers! Whether you like simple or sophisticated, when it comes down to it, you need a few good bottle openers. No matter how many times the bottle cap says twist top I can guarantee that your hands will hate you the next morning if you crack each one off by hand! They make these bad boys for a reason… Use Them! Your hands will thank you!
It’s important to have a multitool version or a wine bottle opener on hand at all times as well. The last tool in the bottle opener wheelhouse is one for opening canned juices.
This one can blindside a bartender in a heartbeat and instead of the ever so ugly stabbing the can with a kitchen knife approach I prefer to pull my can opener out of my pocket, crack two holes in the can, and move on to serving the hundredth bay breeze of the night…
Bar Caddy’s For All The Things!
Bar Caddy’s! These just make me so happy! They hold everything you need from beverage napkins, cocktail straws, garnish picks, and garnishes. There are many different kinds, colors, and styles to choose from.
I prefer black for my business and needed a few as we do multiple weddings per day. I chose this three-pack but I have links to different styles throughout based on options and price points that could work for you!
I always have my simple caddies filled with beverage napkins, cocktail straws, and garnish picks that you can find linked above.
A Bartender’s Best Friend!
A Bartending Book! This one reminds me of my early bartending days when I was just learning the ropes and trying to build my knowledge of the most common drink request recipes.
I would study the book over and over and try to memorize the most popular drinks! Even if you don’t master them all, showing guests or clients that you are willing to learn and make them the best cocktails is always a win-win!
Even if you are planning a private event at your home, it’s so fun to have a bartending book to look through recipes and try something new!
Don’t Forget The Cups!
It’s all about the Cups! Cup size matters! Over the years I have learned a few bartending science tips that really make a difference in how long it takes a beverage to be consumed based on the size of the cup it is placed in.
Depending on your style, event needs, or preference you may opt for these eye-catching 9oz beauties. From a bartending business side, I would encourage 12oz cups.
Anything smaller seems to empty too quickly leaving long lines at a crowded event such as a wedding.
If you purchase cups greater than 12oz then you run the risk of waste in that most beverages will start to get watered down from the ice melting. You will tend to see many half-empty drinks scattered throughout your venue as the night winds down!
Coming Prepared! Cutting Board and Knife Set!
A cutting board and knife set! During your prep time, it’s important to have a cutting board handy for prepping the garnishes!
This three-pack is great for finding your perfect size and maybe having a backup or extras if you are running a mobile bartending business and need to pack multiple kits of bar supplies.
All The Fixings!
Mixed Drink Ingredients. There are a few common items that you will find many popular mixed drinks have in common.
It’s important to have these items behind your bar so you are ready should someone decide they want one! These are items that I always pack in our bartending totes and have on hand in case they are needed.
Each item is linked should you want to purchase some for your next event!
Though this may not include everything you need to entertain your favorite guests or begin your mobile bartending journey, it will give you a great headstart and allow you to be prepared for whatever comes your way!
Where to next?
If you’ve found these tips helpful let us know in the comments section! Liked this post? Pin it to save for later or share with friends! We want to share all of the things that we have learned along the way as we navigate our mobile event business! If you want to stay up to date with trends that we are seeing in the mobile bartending world or want to learn about the biz sign up for our newsletter! As always, we respect your privacy and you can view our policy at the bottom of this post. Anything that we recommend in our posts is products or services that we personally use and believe in! 