Let's be honest, your event or conference won't be quite complete until you have a bar counter. People tend to socialize around none other than the bar -- it's quite often the main focal point of any event. Bar counters can be as simple or as extravagant as you want. Think about what you want the environment of your event to be like, and go from there.

You want only the best for your attendees, of course. Follow these suggestions to have a bar counter that nobody will forget:

1. Measure the space you have allotted for the bar counter.

2. Find a bar counter in the shape you desire for the space.

3. Get the best bar counter you can, but keep it within a reasonable budget.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose the appropriate size bar counter

You don't want the bar counter to fill the entire room for your event, just be a focal point. Be sure to measure the space your event will be in before choosing which bar counter to rent. Also be sure to take into account the number of people who will be attending.

I recommend: If you are having a smaller, more intimate event, American Furniture Rental offers a small yet contemporary bar counter. If your function is going to be on the larger end, places like Room Service Furniture and Event Rentals offer much larger options to choose from.

Decide on the shape of the bar counter

Once you decide on the appropriate size for your bar counter, it's important to choose a shape that will complement the style of your room. Round? Square? Short? Tall? These are all things you need to take into consideration.

I recommend: Designer8 Event Furniture Rental offers a lengthy bar counter list that includes many different shapes. It has stores around the country, making them more accessible to you. Another bar counter provider is Lounge22, where you will also find bar counters that are sure to be a hit at your event.

Think about your budget as a whole before choosing a bar counter

Although you want a classy bar counter, don't blow the bank on one piece of furniture. You can find stylish bar counters for reasonable rental prices if you do your research and search through bar counter information. Don't rent the first one you come across in the bar counter directory.

I recommend: Think outside of the box if you need to. This Martini Bar at CORT Event Furnishings can be used in multiple ways to get the most out of your bar counter. Props for Today also offers several bars to choose from that you can use in a way that will be appropriate for your overall budget.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Take into account all of the barware that you will need to accompany your bar counter. You will need glassware, coolers, ice bins, etc., to make your bar counter come to life.