If you’ve been to a great bar recently, you’ve probably been pleasantly overwhelmed by the variety of chic new cocktails popping up everywhere. From the spicy jalepeno margarita to updated classics like the Manhattan, sipping the perfect cocktail is a special experience. Even if you’re no mixologist, every home bar should be appointed with basic pieces that make entertaining a breeze.

Double old fashioned and highball glasses are used for almost any cocktail or fine liquor you can think of and are an absolute must for the at-home bartender.

Stemware is, of course, another must for wine enthusiasts and those who love to entertain.

A good bartender is never without the proper tools.

Beautiful pitchers and decanters are a great way to add elegance to your bar.

Don’t forget other important basics that can complete your barware collection.

For endless inspiration in your mixology ventures, American Bar from Graphic Image is a comprehensive guide to the perfect bar.

Finally, once you’ve assembled the perfect bar, show it off in style on a classic bar cart.

Discover more barware and entertaining must-haves at GraciousStyle.com.

The introduction of the Lastra Collection was a much anticipated one for VIETRI, as it was our first foray into stoneware.  That stone makeup means that the collection is not only chic and classic, but also extremely durable and chip-resistant. Lastra comes to us from Tuscany, and it is made by the same artisans who [...]

The L’Objet Pour Fortuny collection of dinnerware and accessories is a beautiful line inspired by the creative minds behind Fortuny.

Known around the world for their richly colored and patterned fabrics, the Italian company is the work of designer Mariano Fortuny.

First a painter, then an etcher, a sculptor, a photographer, an architect and inventor, today’s narrow definition of artist cannot adequately describe Mariano Fortuny. He was truly a Renaissance man who made his own photographic paper, bound his own books, and designed his own lamps and furniture. – Fortuny.com

In the spring of 2011, L’Objet designer Elad Yifrach spent ten days in Venice visiting the Fortuny archives and library.

The resulting collection, L’Objet pour Fortuny, is a unique and colorful blend of time-honored artistry and modern craftsmanship.

View the Fortuny Dinnerware collection here.

Based on the colors and patterns of Fortuny fabrics, the Fortuny dinnerware collection features brightly colored plates, mugs, bowls and more.

The decadent colors and patterns are reminiscent of still life paintings.

In addition to dinnerware, there are also decorative accessories, like these stunning boxes.

Each box is upholstered with luxurious Fortuny fabric and features brass details and a key with tassel.

Limoges porcelain is formed into a pattern of pleats and accented with 24kt gold to form the Fortuny candles. Each candle is shipped in a gift box with a decorative Fortuny pattern. Scented with the fragrance of Bittersweet.

These beautiful vases are available in three colors and sizes. Perfect for displaying flowers and more on your desk, table, or any place that could use a pop of color or pattern.

We’ve just added several gorgeous new collections from one of our favorite tabletop companies, L’Objet. L’Objet’s collections are diverse, but they are almost always inspired by nature and architecture. And despite the lux feel, much of the line is practical with just a touch of whimsy.

Inspired by the enchanting flow of Paris’ famed carousels, the Carrousel collection beautifully captures eternal movement in luminescent metal. Masterfully handcrafted from stainless steel, this holloware set is a timeless twist on classic design, artfully realized for the modern table. Includes bowls, platters, candlesticks and dessert server.

This stunning Bambou Desk Accessories collection is plated in 24kt gold and formed in a bamboo motif. Includes bookrest, bookends, magnifying glass and desk tray.

Fancy Bettas (also known as Siamese Fighting Fish) are a charming motif for placecard holders and salt & pepper shakers in gold or platinum.

A charming addition to L’Objet’s line of jewel-encrusted picture frames, these mini frames measure just 2 inches – perfect for displaying your tiny treasures on a desk or shelf. Available in round or flower shapes and a range of colors.

You can see all of our L’Objet collections, from classic favorites to new additions, at www.graciousstyle.com.

Of all the British customs, afternoon tea is one of our favorites.  It’s a perfect time to unwind: not as rushed as lunch, and never as serious as dinner.  Plus, you get to have sweets, savories, and drinks, all in miniature portions, so you can really have one of each.  Enjoy!

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For more inspiration, follow our Afternoon Tea board on Pinterest.

Pink is a very versatile color which really comes alive when combined with other colors.  Soft pinks are soothing, while bright pinks are bold and exciting.  For softness, mix pink with white or cream; for elegance, mix pink with gray; for warmth, mix pink with taupe and gold; for freshness, mix pink with green; for boldness, mix pink with orange or purple.  Take a look below:

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For more ideas, follow our Decorating with Pink board on Pinterest.

A traditional three-letter monogram for an individual has the initial of the individual’s surname (or last name) set larger in the center, with the individual’s first name initial to the left of it and the middle name initial the right of it. For example, the monogram for John Paul Smith would read:

JSP

Modern convention calls for a married couple to create a three-letter monogram using the initial of their shared surname set larger in the center, with the wife’s first name initial to the left of it and the husband’s first name initial the right of it. For example, if Mary Brown married John Smith, their monogram would read:

MSJ

Some references say that for married couples, the husband’s first name initial comes first. It is really a matter of personal preference.

Old school custom, as espoused by Amy Vanderbilt’s Complete Book of Etiquette, would have the linens “marked with the married initials of the mistress of the house.” This three-letter monogram has the initial of the woman’s married surname set larger in the center, with her first name initial to the left of it and her maiden name initial to the right of it. For example, if Mary Brown married John Smith, their monogram would read:

MSB

There is an option to have all the initials the same size (the center initial is not larger.) These monograms do not follow the format described above for location of the surname initial. If all initials are the same size, then they are simply listed in order with the surname initial placed at the end. For example, John Paul Smith would read “JPS,” and Mary and John Smith would read “MJS.”

If you like color, you’ll love the new spring collections from Kim Seybert!  Placemats in sea fan coral, crab, and other sea life motifs mingle with coral and aquatic sea life-detailed napkins.

Brightly accented placemats punctuated with architectural elements in the Marrakech, Pagoda, and Tangier collections hint at exotic adventures abroad.

The Dayglow collection adds a saturated pop art vibe to any setting with lime, citron, melon, and bubblegum hues. Rich ikats, fun seersuckers and bold brushstrokes of color complete a spring or summer table.

Ikats and cabochons in indigo and citron are resplendent with handsome bursts of color.

For stylish picnics, the new melamine dinnerware in rich cobalt Chinois and red Coral patterns are must-haves for outdoor entertaining.

See the entire collection of Kim Seybert accessories.

It’s officially springtime, and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by decking out your table in all manner of flowers and leaves! The editors of Flower Magazine agree, and they put together this fabulous floral spread that we just adore.

Get the look: