RAISE THE BAR

A well-stocked bar is a key component of any festive celebration. First, designate a specific area – a drinks trolley, console or coffee table, or even your kitchen worktop. Gather basic equipment and ingredients together ahead of time. If you’re serving cocktails, you’ll need to equip your bar area with a cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer and muddler, along with a selection of jugs and pretty glassware. Choose your drinks wisely – a couple of key spirits and mixers, alongside beer, wine and soft drinks will be plenty to create some delicious drinks. And finally, don’t forget to stock your bar with lots of ice kept chilled in a stylish bucket.

Swoon Cole glass bar cart, £199; Firecracker lights, £30; Peacock Feather champagne flutes, £9 each; gin goblets, £25/two; Peacock Feather gin glasses, £10 each; Peacock Feather highball glass, £10; Peacock Feather tumblers, £9 each: all John Lewis & Partners