Guest Picks: Nicely Priced Glassware for All Occasions
It has been a summer of entertaining, and when my family throws a party, we usually have to consider both young and old, classy and casual. Earlier this year it occurred to me that our glassware options seemed kind of lacking, and maybe our bar set and everyday dining glasses should be supplemented with special-occasion items. My husband and I found some stuff that works well for us, some of which is shown below, and for the most part, we’re pleased that we found great items at price points that won’t sting if something breaks. Because when you’re throwing parties all summer long, something’s bound to accidentally shatter.
If you’re in the same boat, I think the selection of glassware below is really going to pique your interest and make you rethink the beverage presentation at your next formal dinner or backyard barbecue. Cheers! — Emily from Merrypad
8-Piece Marta Barware Set - $17.80These Marta bar glasses actually live in my kitchen — I have to start this ideabook with them because I think they’re phenomenal, and I can say that earnestly because I’ve been putting mine to use for several years. They are very lightweight and thin, making everything from a summer cocktail to a glass of milk seem like an infinity pool of wonderfulness.
Stemless Pinot Noir Wineglasses, Set of 2 - $19.95Stemless wineglasses are a personal fave — just call me clumsy. So not only is this pinot noir glass practical, but its beautiful form and weighted bottom make it a pretty addition to a barware set.
Inside-Out Champagne Glasses, Set of 2 - $70Inside-out champagne glasses are sure to be a hit at the big New Year’s Eve party; am I right? MoMA always sells some amazingly interesting pieces, and these would be perfect for an eclectic barware collection.
Mason Jar Shot Glasses, Set of 4 - $12Mason jars are great for icy summertime drinks, but miniature mason jars are the coolest shot glasses. They also double as adorable bud vases.
Emmett Glass Serving Bottle - $35Accent your barware with a pretty glass water bottle like this. It certainly creates the sensation that you’re at a fancy restaurant, right?
Oldham + Harper Fish Glass - $7.50Fishs Eddy just released a new set of glasses from the Oldham + Harper line, so you get four more glasses to completely adore every day. They’re at the top of my birthday wish list!
Schott Zwiesel Hefeweizen Glasses, Set of 6 - $90Replace that beer bottle with one of these traditional Hefeweizen glasses. Then spend the night sitting back with your feet up on the deck. Best bar ever.
Hula Glass Tumblers, Cool, Set of 4 - $38Colorful little glasses like these would be great for a beachy gathering; they’re reminiscent of beach glass and the pretty blue ocean.
Czar Sea Blue Vodka Shot Glasses, Set of 4 - $23.95The prettiest (and classiest) shot glasses I ever did see! This sea-blue set is even affordable too, making it a great gift for a friend who loves to host parties.
Cape Cod Beverage Jar - $49.95Whether filled with water or a delicious fruity tea, a large beverage jar is a great addition to any bar or party glassware set. This store has a lot of great — and affordable! — options.
Rainbow Band Recycled Glasses, Set of 4 - $40I love the shape and unique detail of the swirling colors on these glasses. They’re beautiful for everyday use.
Bodega Tumbler - $2.95The shape and fine form of this Bodega glass reminds me of my favorite CB2 glasses in the first photo. This would be the perfect glass for all events, from everyday dining to cocktail night on the patio.
Copper Mug - $30For the Moscow Mule fan in your life, Mark and Graham offers copper mugs in a great, classic shape, and they'll even develop a patina over time. Get them monogrammed for a personal touch.
Summer Drink Glass - $1.95A set of these glass bottles would definitely cheer up the table settings at a Sunday-morning brunch. Don’t forget the fresh OJ and some striped straws for effect!
Lazy Susan LZS-824019 Clear Decanter, Large - $56Add a decanter to your barware if you enjoy throwing parties. I think this one would be really pretty left out for everyday enjoyment too.Buy on Houzz
Blue Impressions Double Old-Fashioned Glasses, Set of 4 - $7.96A set of these icy blue old-fashioned glasses would be an easy way to kick-start your barware collection. Priced at $8 for a set of four, they are a hard-to-pass-by deal.
Waterford Elegance Cabernet Sauvignon Wineglass, Pair - $70Photography is a powerful thing, and in this case, it manages to make these Waterford wineglasses the most beautiful glassware I've ever seen. I'm making a mental note that these would be a wonderful wedding gift for someone with exquisite taste.
Mikasa Kya Stemware Collection - $12.99If you can’t tell by now, I like colored glass. This affordable set would serve a wide array of beverage needs and coordinate nicely for a dinner party.
Libbey 15481 Inverness 9-Ounce Rocks Glass, Set of 36 - $69.99It's a rare occasion that you find yourself wanting to purchase a bulk order of glassware, but remember that online restaurant suppliers are a gold mine, and buying direct from them can help cut costs if you're thinking of renting glassware for a big party or wedding.
Lempi Universal Glasses, Set of 2, Dark Lilac - $85These are pretty in purple and an easy way to dress up your everyday water on the rocks. (Psst: They also come in a glorious blue and a smoky gray.)
Next: Cool Ideas for Refreshing Summer DrinksBuy on Houzz