The next time you're hosting a summer barbecue or cocktail/dinner party, here's a pro tip to help keep your guests happy: Always have a supply of cold ice that's easily accessible, so that every drink served is perfectly chilled from start to finish.

Filling an ice chest is fine for larger events, but for those smaller, more intimate gatherings, I recommend an ice bucket like this one from S'well.

It's essentially like the ones you'd find in hotel rooms, except it's constructed from two layers of vacuum-insulated 18/8 stainless steel and a layer of copper, the result being that your ice stays cold for up to 48 hours without condensation getting all over the place.

Not only is it convenient having a bucket full of ice nearby while you're hanging out with friends, I find it's a handy way to empty out a countertop ice maker and keep the cubes stable for serving while the machine makes more. You can also use it to chill a single bottle of wine or champagne.

As of July 12th, 2024, you can get a solid-colored S'well ice bucket on sale for $41 on Amazon in your choice of Azurite (dark blue), Onyx (black), or Angel Food (white). If you're willing to spend the usual full price of $50, they also have more stylish patterned designs like Teakwood, Calcutta Gold, and Dipped Metallic.