By Kendyl Kirtley
Transitioning from the SMU dorms to apartment living is an exciting change and rite of passage for rising upperclassmen. If there’s one thing you need to furnish your space, it’s a bar cart. Not only is a bar cart an essential for Boulevard pregames and wine nights with friends, once you hit twenty-one, it’s also a way to enhance your place with your own unique flair. I talked to some SMU students to learn more about their bar cart must-haves:
Where to start? You need a cart! You can find chic carts for an affordable price on Amazon, at furniture stores like Wayfair, or if you’re lucky, passed down from your post-grad friends. Once you have your foundation, it’s time for the fun part – decorating your cart.
The way you accessorize your cart is a fun way to incorporate your personality into your space. Adding personal and sentimental details is an easy way to make your cart stand out. One easy and eye-catching way to fill up space on your cart is to stack colorful coffee table books and pair them with fun accessories, or your most treasured pieces of art.
“I have shot glasses that I’ve collected from travels, which is a cool personalized touch,” said junior Bella Lopez. “Also a fun little feature I have is a Spotify code on the left of the cart, and if you scan it, it takes you to a playlist” (Lopez).
Other ways to add dimension to your bar cart are light-up signs, a vase brimming with fresh flowers, funky napkins, or unique glassware. One of my favorite additions to a bar cart is a guestbook for friends to sign, leaving you with a sentimental keepsake to remember after you graduate.
When in doubt, go back to the basics.
“Honestly, I would say our cups,” laughed senior Lauren Bernard when asked what her favorite aspect of her apartment bar cart is. “Having cups on there is a big essential for pregames” (Bernard).
If you’re struggling with what to put on your bar cart, don’t be afraid to start simple. Collect cups, recipe books, and artwork over time and watch your bar cart transform into your favorite piece within your apartment.
Bar carts are an easy and elegant way to add to your apartment. Use it practically for pregames, or to add a touch of your personality to your new home. Either way, it’s an essential element of accessorizing your college apartment.
Photos 1, 2, and 4 by Kendyl Kirtley. Photo 3 by Bella Lopez.
