Set up your bar cart in advance without the ice or the drinks. I put together mine and then wheeled it outside when it was time to party before loading the drinks and ice.

Consider who’s coming and have something for them to drink! For example, if you’re hosting lots of parents with kids, you probably are going to want more kid-friendly drinks.

Serving kids? Keep any alcohol separate. I didn't add alcohol to my bar cart, but if you want to serve it, you certainly can! Just keep it in a different place so that kids don't confuse it for something they are drinking.

Chill the drinks in a cooler the night before with a lot of ice. Since we never have a ton of space in our fridge, this has been a handy thing to remember as we prepare to entertain.

Purchase extra ice at Sam’s Club and store it in your freezer to keep your bar cart ice cold!

Roll the bar or carry the table outdoors, and place it in the spot where you want it to be for your gathering. If your bar cart has wheels, secure those in plate so the cart doesn't roll off. (Mine has locks on the wheels and it is a brilliant feature, especially since kids love to push things like this.)

Once the bar cart is in place, set out the containers that will hold the drinks on top of the bar.

On the top of the bar, add your cups, napkins, straws, etc. Add any drink mixers that aren't cold, too.

Just before guests arrive, fill the containers with the ice cold drinks and add ice to keep them cool. Place any cold mixers on top of the bar, too.

If you'll be outdoors for a long time, add a bucket of ice to the bar, too!

Encourage your guests to enjoy the variety of drinks you have on hand, and enjoy your time together!