Guest Picks: Holiday Entertaining

Break out the bubbly and get ready for guests with 20 pieces perfect for entertaining

Event planner by day, food enthusiast and blogger by night. I write the blog Channeling Contessa, where I share recipes, culinary inspiration, and cooking and lifestyle tips. You can check it out at www.channelingcontessa.com.
Event planner by day, food enthusiast and blogger by night. I write the... More »
With the holidays just a few weeks away, it's time to start preparing your kitchen and tabletop. Here are some key items to bring warmth and sparkle to your dining table and home, along with a few tools for making entertaining a breeze.
Clara from Channeling Contessa
modern cookware and bakeware Nordic Ware Yule Log Pan
Nordic Ware Yule Log Pan - $36.00 »
A few years ago, my family spent the holidays in the South of France. For our Christmas Day dessert we picked up a Bouche de Noel from a local bakery. I'd love to make one at home this year, and this Yule Log Pan would make the process a snap!
traditional serveware by Etsy
by Etsy »
Vintage China Egg Cups by All Things White - $18.00 »
How darling are these egg cups? They're perfect for storing festive pine cones, and they would make for an extra special holiday breakfast featuring simple soft boiled eggs.
modern serveware by West Elm
Square Lacquer Wood Tray - $22.00 »
One might think of only using these trays to store TV remotes, but how perfect would they be as a festive centerpiece for a bar? A bottle of red wine, some sparkly glasses and a stack of vibrant napkins would fit perfectly on one.
traditional candles and candle holders by Crate&Barrel
Gold Taper Candles - $4.95 »
When it comes to holiday table settings, I adore long-stemmed candles. These gold ones provide the perfect shade to complement November and December entertaining.
modern table linens by West Elm
Metallic Printed Runner »
A clean runner with a hint of shimmer can be used for any entertaining occasion from November through December — not to mention it would be absolutely perfect for New Year's Eve.
traditional serveware by Williams-Sonoma
Antique White Rectangular Serving Bowl - $59.00 »
An antique white serving bowl never goes out of style, and it comes in handy when plating up Thanksgiving side dishes. A collection of these against a tablescape with gold elements would be stunning.
traditional table linens by Williams-Sonoma
Hemstitched Linen Napkins - $48.00 »
I prefer to steer clear of any overtly holiday table linens and go for autumnal tones in natural fabrics instead. They deliver such a clean and classic look.
eclectic barware by Anthropologie
Menagerie Bottle Stopper - $16.00 »
How fun are these bottle stoppers? They'd bring such whimsical touches to a dining table. Grab two bottles of red wine and two bottles of white wine (or sparking water) that you're serving with dinner, replace the corks with these bottle stoppers and space them evenly on the table to create effortless and functional decor.
modern accessories and decor Copper Skillet Ornament
Copper Skillet Ornament - $9.95 »
How cute is this mini copper pan? With some ribbon, I think it could be fashioned into the perfect napkin ring (and little gift) for guests.
traditional cookware and bakeware by Chef Tools
Le Creuset Heritage Stoneware Pate Terrine & Press, Flame Orange - $39.95 »
Le Creuset never fails to create the most stylish pieces from oven to tabletop. This Heritage Stoneware Terrine would look absolutely stunning on a Thanksgiving table, don't you think?
traditional knives and chopping boards by Etsy
by Etsy »
Rustic Wood Cutting Board, Natural Edge, Salvaged 372 by Red Onion Woodworks - $89.00 »
I'm totally smitten with these natural-edge cutting boards from Red Onion Works. They'd work perfectly for serving cheese or as an extra special centerpiece.
modern holiday decorations by Terrain
by Terrain »
Candy Cane Mug - $14.00 »
I'm usually against dishware that's so holiday specific, but these candy cane mugs are too cute to resist! I'd love to sip some cocoa from these on a chilly night in December.
traditional serveware by Terrain
by Terrain »
Mirrored Trivet - $28.00 »
I love the vintage feel of these mirrored trivets. The gentle gleam and shimmer are perfect for the holiday season.
traditional dinnerware by Pottery Barn
Tava Round Charger - $18.00 »
I'm usually of a less-is-more mindset when it comes to table settings, but I love the organic feel of these chargers. They're not too distracting, and they would complement any dinnerware and linens.
modern kitchen tools by Crate&Barrel
Turkey Lifters - $12.95 »
Speaking from experience, it's hard to lift that bird! I tend to stay away from excessive kitchen tools, but I'm going to say these turkey lifters are definitely a must.
modern barware by Z Gallerie
Deer and Moose Shot Glasses - $19.95 »
OK, how adorable and chic are these shot glasses? I'd like them just for decoration. They are definitely going on my Christmas list!
traditional dinnerware by Crate&Barrel
Harper Dinnerware - $99.95 »
In my mind, holiday dinnerware should be simple and elegant with a glamorous twist. I love the silver detail on these dishes. It's mild yet gives that festive touch for holiday entertaining.
traditional barware by West Elm
Champagne Bucket - $34.00 »
A classy champagne bucket is a must for any holiday dinner party (champagne should always be served icy cold), and this gleaming bucket makes the perfect accent for any room.
contemporary glassware by Z Gallerie
Chisel Glassware - $35.80 »
I love the look and feel of this glassware. The hammered gold is so unusual and will surely have your guests gushing over your taste and style.
modern barware by Z Gallerie
Therapy Beverage Napkins - $5.95 »
These napkins are downright hysterical and would set a great mood during any cocktail hour. Position them in different locations so guests don't have to be right by the bar to see them.

Next:
Come to the Table
Thanksgiving Tabletop Inspiration

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