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Step 1
Tequila comes in many brands.Stock your bar with the requisite kinds of mid-grade liquor. These include vodka, gin, rum (dark and light), whiskey (and/or bourbon) and tequila. Don't buy the priciest brands. For example, choose Skyy vodka over Ketel One. Choose Tanqueray London Dry (at about $22) over Van Gogh gin (approximately $27). For bourbon whiskey, choose Jim Beam (approximately $17) or Maker's Mark (approximately $29) instead of Old Rip Van Winkle (approximately $50).
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Step 2
Pina ColadaAdd a variety of mixers to your home bar. Be aware of the expiration dates of juices and pops. Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator according to the label's recommendations. Necessary mixers include tonic water or club soda. Sodas include plain and diet cola. On a limited budget, stick with orange juice and tomato juice. Inexpensive versions of lime juice, grenadine and simple syrup are also good to have on hand. If your guests typically enjoy fruity drinks, add a pre-made mix for daiquiris or pina coladas.
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Step 3
Bottle OpenerStock your bar with a variety of accessories. These finishing touches can enhance a drink's visual appeal and delight guests. Have straws and umbrellas (which can be purchased cheaply in bulk). Also include olives (for martinis), cherries (for fruitier drinks), and lemons or limes (for drinks made with tonic or club soda).
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Step 4
GlasswareStock up on hardware. Necessary bar tools are a wine opener, bottle opener, metal shaker (strainer optional), measuring device, and four to six shot glasses. For the sake of space and cost, limit your glassware to three basic types: cocktail glasses (commonly used for martinis), old-fashioned glasses (a small size works for most mixed drinks) and hurricane glasses (for larger mixed drinks and fruity drinks). Don't forget cocktail napkins.
