Guest Picks: Must-Have Entertaining Basics

Cyd
I reside in Syracuse, NY where I call a 1929 bungalow home. By day, I keep company with a gaggle of loveable pups and work as a blogger (http://www.thesweetestoccasion.com/) and event designer (http://www.sweetoccasionsstudio.com/). I'm obsessed with stripes, letterpress, good coffee, travel, design, and the perfect Stoli and tonic.
I reside in Syracuse, NY where I call a 1929 bungalow home. By day, I keep... More »
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Love to entertain at home? Here's a breakdown of 20 must-have entertaining basics that will seamlessly transition from hosting brunch for the family to dinner parties to holiday celebrations. Party on! — Cyd from The Sweetest Occasion
Mercury Votive Holders - $5.00 »
For instant ambiance at dinner parties and holiday celebrations, a stash of glittering mercury glass votive holders are inexpensive and high impact.
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Apothecary Beverage Jar - $49.95 »
Drink dispensers are perfect for summer lemonade and iced tea, but are also great for holding mulled wine and spiced cocktails in cool months. Their versatility makes them an essential for entertaining.
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All Clad Fondue Set - $169.99 »
A classic stainless steel fondue set is perfect for fun appetizers before your next dinner party or for impromptu gatherings. Add a bottle of good wine and you've got an instant party!
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Homespun Napkins - $28.00 »
Casual linen napkins in a sophisticated neutral color pair nicely with everyday basics. Add a pretty metallic napkin ring for a little extra glam.
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contemporary serveware by Crate&Barrel
by Crate&Barrel
by Crate&Barrel
Coffee Mugs with Tray - $19.95 »
Sunday morning brunch and after-dinner hours both call for a stash of great mugs. Love that these are colorful on the inside and come paired with a great tray.
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Mina Round Tablecloth - $78.00 »
Even casual entertaining looks polished with pretty linens in a classic color combination like navy and ivory.
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Bonnie Blue Cake Stand - $72.95 »
Even the simplest of desserts looks stately and thoughtful on a gorgeous cake stand. A pop of color adds instant style!
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traditional dinnerware by Pottery Barn
by Pottery Barn
by Pottery Barn
Great White Dinnerware - $95.00 »
For avid hosts, timeless white dinnerware with classic styling sets the stage for the prettiest of tables. Mix and match linens, flowers and dessert plates to match the season or your mood.
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Soundview Millworks Cheese Board - $35.00 »
For great nibbles before dinner, a cheeseboard featuring a spread of your favorite cheeses sets the tone for a fabulous party. (This one can be personalized, too.)
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Natural World Dessert Plates - $18.00 »
A set of pretty dessert plates is always the perfect finishing touch when hosting friends and loved ones.
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Sugar + Creamer Set on Bamboo Tray - $14.00 »
A timeless design and warm, modern styling make this sugar and creamer set a great choice for treating guests to a little something sweet.
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Nambe Ice Bucket with Tongs - $130.00 »
Sleek and contemporary with an ageless look, this ice bucket takes center stage on the bar and helps you avoid too many trips back to the freezer.
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Riedel "O" Trio - $29.95 »
For less formal entertaining, embrace chic stemless wine glasses for an easy-going spirit. Simple is almost always better!
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modern barware by Pottery Barn
by Pottery Barn
by Pottery Barn
Solano Pitcher - $24.00 »
Perfect for orange juice at brunch or mojitos in the evening, a sleek glass pitcher is an entertaining staple for crowds of all sizes.
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Lenox Glassware, Set of 4 Tuscany Highball Glasses - $54.00 »
An entertaining essential, don't forget pretty, everyday glassware for serving up minted water and cocktails.
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Flow Dip Set - $29.00 »
Dips and crudités are at home in cute little bowls that will blend with all of your dinnerware and serving pieces. When in doubt, keep it simple and opt for clean lines and white finishes.
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traditional glassware by Crate&Barrel
by Crate&Barrel
by Crate&Barrel
Vineyard Wine Glasses - $12.95 »
A stash of classic wine glasses is a must! A good rule of thumb is to have at least six red and six white wine glasses on hand.
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Dome Bowls - $3.95 »
Over-sized serving bowls are multipurpose and perfect for serving up pasta, chips, salad and more.
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Monogrammed Stainless-Steel Cocktail Shaker - $24.00 »
No host's barware collection is complete without a classic cocktail shaker! This one is super chic and monogrammable.
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Screwpull Leverpull Trigger Wine Opener Set - $99.95 »
Never underestimate the luxury of a great wine opener. If your circle of friends and family are wine drinkers, don't miss out on having one of these in your drawer. (Speaking from experience!)
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Bormioli Italian Dessert Bowl - $5.00 »
Sweet and simple, these pretty Italian dessert bowls dress up no-fuss desserts easily. They're also great for late-night ice cream snacking!

More finds for entertaining:
An Outdoor Dinner Party
20 Essentials for the Home Bar
20 Summer Drinkware Essentials
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Browse more serveware photos »

Comments

Um, no. All you need is a couple couches, a big-screen, and a 24-pack of brewskis.
9 months ago ·
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