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A well-styled bar cart isn’t just for cocktails. It can be a versatile and charming decor piece. You can switch it up throughout the year. No matter what kind of party you’re having, your bar cart can always look amazing. Are you throwing a beach-themed party? Or maybe you want to create a cozy coffee corner? Even if you’re getting ready for the holidays, your bar cart can shine all year long! Here are some creative ways to style your bar cart with seasonal vignettes and functional flair. Plus, I’ll share some of my favorite finds from Serena & Lily and Amazon that make styling easy and beautiful.
Why a Bar Cart is a Must-Have in Coastal Decor
Bar carts blend style and function, and they fit perfectly into coastal-themed homes. With rattan textures, woven accents, and blue-and-white decor, you can easily create a breezy, beachy vibe. I love my rattan bar cart—it’s like a blank canvas that I can style for every season.
Check out my other post on coastal decor
Essential Elements for a Coastal Bar Cart
Before we dive into seasonal styling, here are a few essentials to keep on hand:
• Glassware with woven details for a coastal touch – Love these Serena & Lily glasses
• Rattan trays for easy organization – Check out these on Amazon
• Blue-and-white vases or ginger jars for a classic coastal look – Find similar ones on Amazon
• Drink dispensers or pitchers – perfect for water, cocktails, or hot cocoa
1. Spring Coastal Bar Cart: Fresh and Floral
As flowers bloom, bring in soft, fresh touches. I like to add pastel colors like blush pink and soft blue. I decorate with faux cherry blossoms or tulips in a chinoiserie vase.
• Floral stems: Faux cherry blossoms or hydrangeas –
• Light and airy accents: Wicker coasters and woven baskets add texture.
• Beverage idea: A sparkling water station with flavored syrups and lemon slices.
Tip: Use a blue-and-white vase as your focal point—like the one in my photos above. The pop of pink from cherry blossoms creates a stunning spring display.
2. Summer Vibes: Coastal Entertaining Made Easy
Summer bar carts are all about easy entertaining. Think fresh flowers, crisp beverages, and that breezy coastal feel.
• Hydrangeas: Fresh or faux blue hydrangeas – Grab a set here
• Beverage idea: Stock it with sparkling water, rosé, or a batch of coastal sangria.
• Accessories: Add woven lanterns or a rattan ice bucket. – Serena & Lily has gorgeous options
Tip: I love to add a striped blue-and-white napkin or a small nautical flag for a subtle coastal nod.
3. Fall Bar Cart: Cozy and Coastal
Fall doesn’t have to mean pumpkins everywhere—unless you want it to! I keep my coastal aesthetic with warm textures and muted tones.
• Natural elements: Mini pumpkins in soft blue or white.
These pumpkins are so fun
• Textured accents: Add woven chargers or rattan-wrapped candle holders – Amazon has affordable options.
• Beverage idea: Create an apple cider bar with cinnamon sticks and coastal-themed mugs.
Tip: Swap flowers for eucalyptus or dried grasses for a rustic, cozy vibe.
4. Winter Holiday Bar Cart: Festive and Coastal
Winter brings the perfect opportunity to mix holiday charm with your coastal decor.
• Mini trees or garlands: Add greenery and tiny ornaments in blue and silver.
• Use a bar cart as a hot cocoa station. Stock it with marshmallows and peppermint sticks. Add cute mugs for a touch of charm. Find a cocoa station kit here.
• Lighting: Twinkle lights or battery-operated candles add warmth.
Tip: I love adding a navy velvet ribbon to my woven accessories for a festive, coastal touch.
5. Beyond Drinks: Bar Cart as a Coffee Station or Holiday Vignette
Not a big entertainer? No problem! Your bar cart can still be a star in your home.
• Coffee bar: Display a stylish kettle, mugs, and jars of coffee and tea.
• Holiday vignette: Add seasonal decor like shells for summer, pumpkins for fall, or bottle-brush trees for winter.
• Functional storage: Use baskets or trays to corral items for easy access.
Tip: I use my rattan bar cart as a hot cocoa station in winter and a lemonade stand in summer. The possibilities are endless!
Shop the Look: Coastal Bar Cart Essentials
To help you get started, here are some of my go-to items (with links you can customize with your affiliate links):
• Rattan Bar Cart – Serena & Lily has a stunning selection.
• Blue-and-White Ginger Jar – Available on Amazon.
• Wicker-Wrapped Glassware – Serena & Lily has timeless options.
• Coastal Cocktail Napkins – Check out these fun designs on Amazon.
Final Thoughts on Styling Your Coastal Bar Cart
Your bar cart can be much more than a spot for drinks. It’s an opportunity to showcase your creativity with coastal charm throughout the year. Whether you’re creating a holiday display or a coffee station, keep it fun, useful, and full of personality.
Have fun styling, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram at @fearlessmermaid_ if you try any of these ideas!