Have the rolling bar cart, but no moves in the decorating department? Take notes from interior design and entertaining expert John Bassignani from Haven home shop in Victory Park.

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He and co-owner Jon Tutolo recently styled one for next-door neighbor V.O.D., a fashion boutique that serves cocktails with hip clothing at happy hour. For the two-tier cart (a gift from Ceylon et Cie owner Michelle Nussbaumer), the duo used barware and accessories from their store.

Regardless of your style or shopping sources, Mr. Bassignani dishes about the items every party's bar cart needs.

"It should not be complicated," he says of both the cart's bones and accessories. "The most successful ones are super functional."

But he also emphasizes crucial details – things that either make a statement or start conversation. A suggestion is glasses that are unorthodox, such as vintage tumblers (eBay is his go-to source) or stemless champagne flutes.

And when all the items are set on the shelves, he likes to fill in any gaps with small, personalized pieces like a signature scented votive candle or your favorite seasonal flowers stashed in a bud vase.

Brittany Edwards

Stocking a bar cart

On the top shelf, store glasses (stemless for their sturdiness, stacking ability and sleek style), liquor decanters (vintage is chic) and a wine caddy (lose the boring bottle).

On the bottom shelf, stay practical with extra serving glasses and unopened bottles of alcohol.

When it comes to optional items, go for an ice bucket, cocktail napkins (pretty paper or white linen), handsome tools (tongs, wine openers) and a chic bowl for small bites – olives, onions – or lemon and lime wedges.

Don't forget: a glass water bottle or decanter for guests who don't drink alcohol.

SOURCE: John Bassignani