Ways to make your holiday entertaining easier
agree a few things are worth splurging on. Read on for their top advice.
Whether you’re planning simple snacks or a sit-down dinner, the plates you choose will set the tone for the event. “I’m a big proponent of investing in a set of white plates,” Schiear says.
And with an Ikea line starting at 99 cents per plate, you don’t have much of an excuse. If you must go with something disposable, Rose recommends a set of gold-foiled plates to add pizazz: “You’d be amazed at what disposable party items you can find these days that look like a million bucks.” Instead of paper plates, try:
Abstract Betsy large paper-andfoil plates ($6.50 for a set of eight, Oftast tempered-glass plates (99 cents each,
Schiear’s go-to is chilled bottles of San Pellegrino water served with citrus wedges. A pretty glass pitcher full of water or a signature beverage also can serve as a functional focal point. “Style a bar cart with inexpensive, pretty napkins, a drink dispenser and a few candles,” Rose says. Instead of plastic water bottles, try:
San Pellegrino sparkling water ($1.79 per 1-liter bottle, Libbey Impressions pitcher ($19.99,
This is one detail that experts agree is worth the price — and extra load of laundry. Instead of paper napkins, try:
White buffet napkins ($9.99 for a set of six,
Linen hemstitch napkins ($48 for a set of four,
Metallic cutlery can create an instant wow factor. “It costs more, but you can use them every day, and overall it makes a big impact,” Schiear says.
Disposable wooden cutlery is a less expensive option that comes in an assortment of shapes and sizes and coordinates with most decor. Instead of plastic cutlery, try:
Wooden cutlery ($4.95 for a 24-piece pack of appetizer-appropriate “petite” forks, knives or spoons or $6.80 for the larger “deluxe” size,
Project 62’s Izon Mirror fivepiece silverware set in gold ($19.99 for a five-piece set,
They may come in festive colors, but you can do better than those plastic Solo cups. Schiear says raiding your own cabinets (or your friends’) for mismatched glassware can create an eclectic vibe. She also loves classic, European stackable glasses. If you need something tossable, Rose recommends a classic tumbler that can do double duty for cocktails and pre-made desserts. Instead of red party cups, try:
Chinet’s “cut crystal” plastic tumblers ($21.96 for a pack of 100,
Marta glass ($1.50 for a tasting glass, $1.95 for a double old-fashioned glass,
Whether you prefer your table clothed or bare, a simple runner can help tie everything together. Schiear recommends something in a natural color or fabric.
“I’ve heard of people finding things around the house,” such as old curtains or drapes, she says.
Muslin fabric can also work in a pinch: “The naturally frayed edges of the material make it great for a quick, cut-and-go DIY project,” Rose says. Instead of a disposable tablecloth, try:
Natural muslin fabric ($3.81 per yard,
Natural fiber and Lurex table runner ($24.99,