Dining & Flatware Essentials for Cookout Season

Posted July 31 2024 in Cocktails, Dining, Drinkware, Mint Julep Cups, Moscow Mule Mugs, Summer
Tagged: beer mugs, Bread board, charcuterie boards, ice buckets, Mint Julep, moscow mule, stemware

Summer is the perfect time to gather friends and family for memorable cookouts. But what sets a fantastic gathering apart from an average one? It’s all in the details. Whether you’re planning a casual backyard barbecue or a sophisticated evening under the stars, having the right dining and flatware essentials can make all the difference. If you’re an entertaining enthusiast looking to up your game this season, read on to discover the must-have items for cookout season.

Drinkware Essentials

Moscow Mule Mugs

Nothing says classic like a Moscow Mule served in the right mug. The Classic Moscow Mule Mug, 16oz, offers a timeless look that chills your drink perfectly. For an elevated experience, try the Nickel-Lined Moscow Mule Mugs— which adds an extra touch of sophistication and sleek finish to this traditional drinkware.

Beer Mugs & Drinking Glasses

No cookout is complete without a selection of beer mugs and drinking glasses. The Danforth Tankard is perfect for serving a variety of beverages, from craft beers to iced tea. If you’re into stylish seltzer, the Satin Seltzer Glasses Set of Four provides an elegant way to enjoy your fizzy drinks. These glasses are versatile and suit many types of cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages as well.

Cocktails & Stemware

Elevate your cocktail game with the Facet Crystal Goblets. These goblets are not only visually stunning but also enhance the flavors of your favorite drinks. If you prefer a more casual vibe, the Stemless Wine, Set of 4 is perfect for enjoying wine under the stars without the risk of tipping over.

Mint Julep Cups

Mint Julep Cups are synonymous with southern hospitality and classic cocktails. No summer gathering is complete without one. The Gold Finish Mint Julep Cup adds a luxurious touch to your bar setup, while the Beaded Mint Julep Cup, Small offers a charming and intricate design. Both options are perfect for serving refreshing mint juleps or any other favorite summer drinks.

Cool Down with Ice Buckets

Keeping your drinks chilled is essential for any cookout. The Lismore Ice Bucket with Tongs features a stunning cut-glass design that not only keeps ice cold but also adds a touch of elegance to your beverage station.

Lismore Ice Bucket with Tongs

Keeping your drinks chilled is essential for any cookout. The Lismore Ice Bucket with Tongs features a stunning cut-glass crystal design that not only keeps ice cold but also adds a touch of elegance to your beverage station.

Vertigo Silver Plated Ice Bucket

For those who prefer modern elegance, the Vertigo Silver Plated Ice Bucket is a fantastic choice.  Its reflective surface and contemporary design make it a standout piece that complements any outdoor decor.

Woodbury Pewter Ice Bucket with Lid Satin Finish

The Woodbury Pewter Ice Bucket with Lid Satin Finish combines traditional craftsmanship with a sleek satin finish. This bucket, complete with a lid, ensures your ice stays cold longer, making it ideal for extended gatherings.

Charcuterie Boards that Impress

Charcuterie boards are a must-have for presenting appetizers and snacks.

Cheese Block with Knife & Spreader by Nambe

The Cheese Block with Knife & Spreader by Nambe is both functional and stylish, providing a beautiful surface for cheeses, meats, and accompaniments. This set includes all you need to serve a variety of people, making it a hit among your guests.

Boards By Sheridan

For sports enthusiasts, add a playful touch to your gatherings with the Bamboo Football Cutting Board is a fun addition to any cookout. It’s not only functional but also a conversation starter, perfect for sports-themed cookouts. The Acacia Wood Handled Bread Board by Sheridan offers a rustic yet elegant charm that’s ideal for serving bread, fruits, and more.

Grape Tray Entertainment By Arthur Court

The Grape Tray Entertainment, 5pc Set by Arthur Court is a stunning way to present a wide variety. Its intricate grapevine design and multiple compartments make it perfect for showcasing an array of snacks and finger foods. This set includes serving trays and utensils, making it easier than ever to serve a variety of appetizers.

High-quality dining essentials can transform your cookout into an unforgettable experience. From elegant drinkware and perfectly chilled ice buckets to impressive charcuterie boards, these items will help you host with style and ease. Ready to elevate your next event? Explore these products and start planning your ultimate summer cookout today!

5 Personalized Gift Ideas for a Bridal Shower

Posted: May 25, 2023 in Drinkware, Engraving, Gifts, Mint Julep Cups, Sterling Silver, Wedding
Tagged: bridal shower, bridal shower gift, engraved gift, wedding gift

Wedding season has just begun, and aside from the actual weddings themselves, you’ll likely be attending some other related events like bridal showers over the coming months. If you’re stuck searching for a meaningful gift for the couple that is personalized yet sophisticated, getting an engraved silver gift from Silver Superstore is a wonderful idea. Here are five great options to consider as gifts for the next bridal shower you’re invited to.

1. Michelangelo 2pc Cake Server Set

Any sterling silver cake set will make a great gift for the bride-to-be. But, specifically, the Michelangelo 2pc Cake Server Set by Oneida should be one of the top considerations for a personalized bridal shower gift. This ornate, Victorian-style flatware pattern makes it a regal gift set for any couple who loves the traditional style.

You can engrave the cake server set with the couple’s initials, their wedding date, and more by choosing from over a dozen different font styles.

2. Pantheon 2pc Wedding Cake Set

The Pantheon 2pc Wedding Cake Set is a more understated and sleek option for engravable silver cake sets, but just as elegant and charming. The classic architectural detailing of this set features an egg-and-dart pattern on the tip, subtle lines throughout that replicate dentil molding, and an acanthus leaf on the neck giving this piece a stately aesthetic.

Again, you can personalize this cake set to make it custom for the bride and groom with their names or initials, plus the date of their wedding. Among the numerous font styles to choose from, options like Roman Block or BodoniXT would look fabulous and complement the masculine look of the set.

3. Plain Palacios Frame

You may also consider gifting engraved picture frames at the next bridal shower you attend. If so, check out the Plain Palacios Frame. This meaningful gift gives the bride a place to display a cherished photo from their wedding day, and you can also personalize it in a ton of different ways.

The plain design of the frame gives you a clean slate to customize it with any font style or messaging that you choose. This includes the date of their wedding, the location, their names, and more.

4. Devotion Toasting Flutes

The romantic and delicate details of these flutes offer a timeless yet modern elegance that any couple would love to include on their special day. The Devotion toasting flute pair is a perfect choice for an engagement, wedding or anniversary gift. Make your gift complete by also giving the matching Devotion cake set.

Personalizing the flutes with the couple’s initials and wedding date in a romantic font like Comscript or Upright Script would be the perfect pairing for a touching bridal shower gift.

5. Beaded Mint Julep Cup

Lastly, consider gifting the bride a pair of Beaded Mint Julep Cups at her bridal shower. This nickel plate mint julep cup from Elegance Silver has a classic design, but isn’t completely bare of any details, either.

Even if the bride doesn’t drink mint juleps, these cups are extremely versatile and can be used as a cup for any other beverage, as a vase for small floral arrangements, and more. Thus, there are tons of possibilities for how you can engrave this item given the large surface space available and the simplicity of the design.

Sip in Style with Silver Drinkware this St. Patty’s Day

Posted: March 12, 2021 in Drinkware, Holidays, Mint Julep Cups
Tagged: drinkware, Mint Julep, moscow mule

With St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, you better be upgrading your drinkware collection to match the spirit. With thousands crawling the bars to celebrate the Irish festival with a bang, you better deliver in style. Yes, decorating items, green party accessories are huge, but upgrading your St. Patty’s Day bar with silver drinkware will take you even to the next level.

If you’re hoisting an Irish-themed event at your bar or planning a private party, elevate the atmosphere with custom silver drinkware. There’s no need to get a lot of new items. All you have to do is focus on drinkware to serve the must-have drinks during the ultimate Irish festival.

Cool Silver Drinkware to Elevate St. Patrick’s Day Decor

St. Patrick’s Day is synonymous with bar crawls, home parties, and tons of festivities to celebrate. It’s also the perfect timing to introduce new cool drinks to your bar’s repertoire.

Fun St. Patty’s Day cocktails include the popular green beer, a Dublin apple cocktail, whiskey tonic, Guinness and green Jell-O shots, and obviously, some Irish coffee.

Still, to serve these delicious drinks in style, you better match them to cool silver drinkware that will make this year’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration one to remember.

Tankards

Silver tankards channel an old-school Irish vibe. These big mugs have been around since the 17th century. They’re great for serving beer or ale. Choose the large 16oz size for serving everyone’s favorite green beer. Or, opt for the smaller 5oz size for some delicious hot toddy or offer some cool-looking beer samples.

Beer Steins

Silver beer mugs draw inspiration from the traditional tankard with a bit of a modern upgrade. They’re perfect for keeping beers at the perfect temperature. Plus, the sturdy handle helps people keep their drink where they want it: in their hands. These silver beer mugs can hold up to 20oz, so you can use them to serve a fun Guinness, and green Jell-O shot drink.

Moscow Mule Mugs

Don’t be fooled by the name of these mugs. While traditionally, the Moscow Mule Mug serves, well, a Moscow Mule cocktail, there’s so much more you can do with it. Our stainless Moscow Mule Mugs have the perfect capacity to fill a classic green margarita and a Whiskey ginger mule, which goes a bit more with the St. Patty’s Day-theme.

Flasks

Is there anything that exemplifies St. Patrick’s Day more than a silver flask? Surprise everyone with our silver stainless steel flasks and celebrate in style. These are perfect for giving out as party gifts or have around for guests. Flasks are perfect for storing hard-liquors like that Irish whiskey everyone’s hoping to get on St. Patrick’s Day.

Mint Julep Cups

The classic Mint Julep Cup used to be a centerpiece, and then it was used to serve water. In this St. Patrick’s Day celebration, you can use them to serve green shots. The mint julep cocktail is already the ultimate Irish-theme cocktail with its light green tint and its fresh mint leaves as decor. For such a fancy drink, once the go-to cocktail at the Kentucky Derby, you must serve it in top-notch silver drinkware.

Celebrate with Silver: Bring in the New Year with These Must-Haves

Posted: December 21, 2020 in Drinkware, Holidays, Lifestyle, Mint Julep Cups, Moscow Mule Mugs
Tagged: drinkware, holidays, new years, Paul Revere Bowls

The end to a year that will forever be etched into the soul of the entire world requires remembrance. Even small New Year’s Eve (NYE) rituals at home can still be fully decked out with stunning tableware that pays homage to the end of a tumultuous year.

Having crisp drinkware and all of the necessary accessories to create a joyous celebration adds a special touch needed to bring in a new year filled with ultimate possibilities.

Celebratory Drinkware

The Moscow Mule has been a permanent part of the cocktail scene since 1941. It came to life in an era of American fortitude during World War II and the Great Depression. Jack Morgan, owner of the legendary Cock ‘n’ Bull bar in Los Angeles, was having trouble moving a massive shipment of ginger beer and vodka.

Since both weren’t popular at that time, a Moscow Mule mug was able to seal the deal with consumers, and the Moscow Mule was born.

Mint Juleps are another great NYE beverage that will wow both present or virtual party guests. Mint Julep cups are the last touch needed to bring this sweet yet deep and refreshing drink to life. Toasting flutes for a bit of midnight bubbly is a long-standing NYE tradition that represents new beginnings.

The consumption of champagne has been redefined over the ages. The practice that finally found its place as an NYE tradition started at a cafe in New York called Cafe Martin at the end of the 19th century.

Set the Scene with Silver

If you plan on hosting virtual party guests this NYE, then a polished table setting is an absolute must. A candlelit backdrop outfitted with silver candle holders add excitement to small gatherings and will make any livestream NYE event truly special. Revere bowls will complete your decor and are perfect for serving snacks, party punch, and beyond.

Creating the ultimate party background can also be a fun activity between friends or family that can’t gather this year. Hosting an NYE best table setting competition is a fun way for guests to dress up their tables and interact with loved ones in the safety and comfort of each person’s home.

Prizes for best decor can be given, and party attendees can cast votes on the most outfitted table settings in a friendly competition.

Complete the NYE Ambiance

With silver accented decor, food, and cocktails, dressing for the occasion completes the look and creates fluidity between party decor and the host. Even when celebrating at home, creating a complete party atmosphere is so much more than just having something to do this year. It signifies life, vitality, and experiences that can never be taken away.

Coming into NYE, putting your best foot forward will help keep the spirit of celebration alive all through 2021. Having a set of long-lasting silver pieces as a permanent part of your setup can be used for the anticipated get-togethers that will definitely happen in the next year.

Mint Juleps & The Kentucky Derby

Posted: March 28, 2017 in Drinkware, Lifestyle, Mint Julep Cups, Traditions
Tagged: cocktail, derby, kentucky derby, Mint Julep, Mint Julep Cup, the derby

The Mint Julep: Born In The South, Thriving At The Derby

Since 1938, the mint julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, and it’s hard to imagine a cocktail more quintessentially Southern. A combination of sugar, bourbon, crushed ice and mint, this refreshing drink conjures up images of a bygone genteel era. There are over 120,000 of these drinks served at the race each year, and even people at home get in the spirit of the event by mixing their own.

What you may not know, however, is that the history of the mint julep stretches far beyond the Derby, and the drink we all know and love has changed quite a lot over the years.

Early History of the Mint Julep

The mint julep has a history steeped in legend, with multiple origin stories told and believed throughout the region. Some fanciful tales suggest that the drink was developed when a Kentuckian, boating across the Mississippi, plucked fresh mint leaves growing wild on the banks and topped his bourbon with them

According to some sources, the mint julep dates back to the 1830s, where it was originally mixed as a toddy. Toddies acted as health tonics in the days before painkillers and antibiotics, and many cocktails have their origins in these medicinal beverages.

The original mint julep was likely made with brandy, not bourbon, and consumed throughout the South. However, brandy shortages in the mid 1830s made it necessary to change liquors, and the widely available Kentucky bourbon became an easy substitute.

It would take about a century for the modern mint julep to be developed, however. The cocktail world, freshly invigorated by the widespread availability of ice, was eager for a refreshing beverage. The mint julep, with its bright flavor and deep Southern roots, perfectly fit the bill.

The Mint Julep and the Kentucky Derby

The mint julep came to be associated with the Kentucky Derby thanks in large part to the writings of Irvin S. Cobb. The humorist wrote often and fondly about the race, and was also well known for his writings about liquor. As a Kentucky native, Cobb knew a lot about the local bourbon and whiskey, and wrote a book of cocktails called Irvin S. Cobb’s Own Recipe Book.

This book, in addition to providing a recipe for the mint julep and many other drinks, painted a wonderfully pastoral image of Kentucky that resonates today with the heart and soul of the Derby. It’s little wonder that, inspired by the image of gentlemen and fine ladies sipping at the refreshing drink on warm summer days, Churchill Downs would name the mint julep the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. No other drink could ever feel so authentically Kentuckian.

Ways to Enjoy a Mint Julep

The proper way to mix a mint julep is a matter of some debate among Southern cocktail lovers, with many opinions on all sides. There are only a few elements that everyone can agree upon: The drink is served over crushed ice, it includes both mint and sweetener, and it is made with Kentucky whiskey or bourbon.

Outside of these basic principles, numerous variations exist. Some incorporate additional flavorings like nutmeg or fresh fruit slices. Some mixologists will use mint-infused simple syrup whereas others will muddle fresh mint with sugar and water at the bottom of the glass.

The authentic Kentucky Derby mint julep recipe uses Old Forester Straight Bourbon Whiskey. To make it at home, first create a simple syrup by boiling together equal parts water and sugar. Remove from heat and add several fresh mint leaves. Cover and leave to cool overnight in the refrigerator. To mix the drink, add one tablespoon of mint syrup and two ounces of whiskey to a cup filled with ice, stirring rapidly to combine.

For mixing, any glass might do, but the truly authentic cocktail aficionados will insist on a mint julep cup. These stainless steel vessels are designed to frost immediately when the icy drink is stirred within. Drink with a straw, holding the cup by its rim to prevent the frosted exterior from melting over your hand!

Whether you choose to follow a traditional mint julep recipe or want to experiment with your own unique spin on the classic, there is no better way to celebrate the first race of the Triple Crown than with the bright, refreshing flavor of a Southern mint julep.

History of the Mint Julep

Posted: April 3, 2013 in Drinkware, Lifestyle, Mint Julep Cups, Traditions
Tagged: Juleps, kentucky derby, Mint Julep, Mint Julep Cup, Silver Mint Julep Cup, Sterling Julep Cup

The Mint Julep Cocktail has been promoted by Churchill Downs in association with the Kentucky Derby since 1938. In a contract arrangement between the Brown-Forman Corporation and Churchill Downs, the Mint Julep Cocktail was designated “official drink of the Kentucky Derby”. Each year almost 120,000 Mint Juleps are served at Churchill Downs over the two-day period of the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby, virtually all of them in specially made Kentucky Derby collectible cups.

A Traditional Drink

The term “Julep” is generally defined as a sweet drink, particularly one used as a vehicle for medicine. A Mint Julep is traditionally made with four ingredients: mint leaf, bourbon, sugar and water. Traditionally, spearmint is the mint of choice used in southern states. This mint and sugar combo is very similar to a mojito.

The Mint Julep Cup

The Mint Julep Cup is very popular throughout the South, and has long been a symbol of achievement, esteem, and prestige. For over 200 years

Americans have used their Julep cups at events like christenings, weddings, fairs and of course, the races. Traditionally, Mint Juleps cups are made in sterling silver, silverplate, or pewter. These cups are held only by the bottom and top edges of the cup, as this allows frost to form on the outside of the cup.

Many of the southern states have their own unique and distinctive cup styles, including Classic, Beaded, and Threaded. Best known is the Classic style from Kentucky; the Classic American beaker was remade into a Julep Cup with a straight body lines and graceful moldings at the base and rim. This Kentucky Mint Julep Cup originates from early American Silversmiths and craftsmen Asa Blanchard of Lexington and William and Archibald Cooper of Louisville. Nowadays, these styles are manufactured by the world’s most prestigious silversmiths like Godinger, Empire, and Reed & Barton.

Here are a few links to recipes for different Mint Juleps. As we approach the Kentucky Derby this year, perhaps you might want to join in the tradition and enjoy a frosty Mint Julep!

• The “perfect” Mint Julep
• Traditional Mint Julep recipe
• Ultimate Mint Julep recipe