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  1. Catering & Design
  2. Beverages

5 Drink Station Ideas for Summer Events

Steal some inspiration from these setups we spotted on Instagram.

Ashton Pike
June 25, 2021

If there's one thing planners know about summertime events, it's that most guests head for the bar first—especially if the event is outdoors! Whether you're serving up premade sips or curated cocktails, these design-forward drink station ideas are sure to be the talk of the event. 

Mobile Bar Truck
Mobile Bar Truck
Especially popular for intimate gatherings, the mobile bar truck seems to be a trend that's stood the test of time. This quaint white truck, in particular, belongs to Atlanta-based mobile bartending company Fizzy Atlanta Co.—which also has a mobile coffee cart business, Frothy Coffee & Goods. Both trucks are available for rent for private events in the metro Atlanta and North Georgia areas.
Photo: Glorious Moments Photography
Cantina-Inspired Station
Cantina-Inspired Station
Who says your drink station can't blend in with the rest of the event's aesthetic? For this engagement party planned by Lauryn Prattes Events, guests were greeted by a colorful, cantina-inspired bar setup outfitted with fun patterns, florals and succulents.
Photo: Emily Blumberg Photography
Simple Self-Serve Station
Simple Self-Serve Station
For smaller or budget-friendly affairs, a self-serve station goes a long way—but don't leave it hanging with no decor in sight. Take a tip from California-based event designer Erin Rugala, who spruced up her self-serve station with vibrant balloons.
Photo: Ellie and Piper Party Boutique
360-Degree Island Bar
360-Degree Island Bar
A 360-degree bar with three to four bartenders slinging cocktails can help alleviate long lines that tend to form at smaller drink stations—not to mention it allows for a cool design moment. Los Angeles-based Everly Rose Events used a 12-foot, 360-degree bar from Revelry Event Design that quickly became the focal point of the event thanks to over-the-top balloons and florals.
Photo: Happiness Corporation
Glassware Backdrop
Glassware Backdrop
For a private event held at Washington, D.C.'s Spy Museum, Ridgewells Catering dreamed up a Summer Crush Station using on-theme glassware as the setup's backdrop—a budget-friendly and space-efficient trend.
Photo: @ridgewellsdc
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