When making mocktails, Gullickson is more concerned with enjoyment than perfection. “Don’t worry about making your drink perfect,” she says. “Worry about making it yours, and if you don’t have a specific ingredient, use what’s in the fridge; that’s okay! Sip, experiment, and trust yourself.”
Glassware
Don’t skimp on glassware; the sort of thoughtful attention to detail pays off. “If you want a nonalcoholic bar to feel intentional and elevated, the accessories matter just as much as the beverages,” says Gurland.
Sheinbaum is all for leaving the water glasses in the cabinet and reaching for something a little more special. “Appropriate wine, beer, and cocktail glasses are an absolute non-negotiable,” she says. “If you are serving NA beverages in water glasses or mugs or something else entirely: do better! Well-crafted glasses are made to enhance taste and drinking experiences, so you are doing everyone a disservice by ignoring this fact.”
Gullickson recommends keeping a variety of glassware on hand, including coupes, highballs, rocks, wineglasses, and martini glasses, even a mug for warm mocktails. “The glass you choose can change the vibe of your drink from cozy and casual to more sleek and sophisticated,” she says.
Barware
“Just like a well-stocked kitchen makes cooking smooth and simple, a well-stocked bar cart makes mocktail-making effortless and fun,” says Gullickson. “Think of it as part of your self-care toolkit ready to help you unwind, celebrate, or just make hydration a little more exciting.”
To stock your bar, she recommends a shaker and a bar spoon, a citrus juicer, measuring tools like a jigger, a strainer for pulp, and a blender especially for summery frozen drinks.
Gurland agrees that basics like jiggers, shakers, strainers, and quality ice make a huge difference. “One of the biggest misconceptions is that NA drinks require less care or fewer tools,” says Gurland. “NA mixology still depends on balance, dilution, and texture. You can’t achieve that without proper tools. Even simple garnishes like citrus, herbs, or a good-quality tonic can transform a drink.”
