Jack Hughes:  The Gentleman's Guide to Cocktails (I Love this Illustrator!)

I'm headed to Round Top for Antique Week this Thursday.  My plan is to put duct tape around my wallet as I just returned from a trip to Colorado.  (Post on Telluride to come)  However, the one possible temptation is if I see a good selection of 1930's bar accessories.  If you have been reading this blog for a while, you know I like to collect vintage cocktail napkins and such.  It's a fun thing to collect because it gives the bar a personality as well as giving a nod to a time when glamour was oozing from every cocktail party...and probably from their pores the next day!  When prohibition was over, drinking became more of a thing of sophistication and restraint rather than a drunken free for all.  Although the wealthy lived a nice life during this time, it was still a time to spend money consciously.  The cocktail party (between 6-8 PM) was a way to entertain in the home while not having the expense of a full dinner.  In addition, women had a reason to put on a pretty dress, show off their decor and charm guests with interesting conversation.  The Hollywood lifestyle was a huge influence as well.   Men appeared strong and in command with a single malt in hand.  Certainly alcohol has it's problems and most people today don't even serve a full bar.  However, there's no shame in having ONE drink...in a beautiful glass, surrounded with a handmade, ironed napkin, while engaged in clever conversation...and no, that does not include Honey Boo Boo...whoever she is!  Cheers!  I'll let you know how much restraint I have on Thursday.  There's always room for one more silver stirring spoon right?  After all, no one likes a party pooper...

Photos via Blue Fruit's Glamour Drops except where noted