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Guest Picks: Simple Entertaining
A school administrator by day, my free time focuses on most things food. When I am not baking, or decorating cakes, I work on my food blog called Mele Cotte (www.melecotte.com) which means Baked Apples in Italian.
A school administrator by day, my free time focuses on most things food.... More »
I prefer small, intimate gatherings that highlight company, conversation and great food. Simple, multifaceted home items help me enjoy company more and worry less about behind-the-scenes minutia.
ā Chris from Mele Cotte
ā Chris from Mele Cotte
by Crate&Barrel
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Individual Butter Dish - $4.95 »
Simple yet useful, this personal butter dish can help guests avoid the "boarder-house stretch" across the table for butter.
by UncommonGoods
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Reclaimed Slate Cheese Board - $48.00 »
I don't know many people who like a guessing game when it comes to what they're eating. A tabletop serveware that doubles as a menu is not only unique, but also less work for the host.
by Williams-Sonoma
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iSi Mini Cream Whipper - $55.00 »
Cream whippers, like this one with NāO chargers, are so fun. You know they do so much more than whip cream, right? They're great for cheeses and sauces, as well, and they will evoke "oohs" and "ahhs" for sure.
by Williams-Sonoma
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All-Clad Stainless-Steel Flared Roasters - $360.00 »
Every kitchen needs a roaster. Whether cooking a turkey, crown roast, or potatoes and vegetables, it is a go-to pan.
by Pottery Barn
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Carved Architectural Charger - $12.50 »
These versatile charger plates are festive but aren't tied to one holiday.
by Pottery Barn
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Caterer's 12-Piece Napkin Ring/Place Card Holder Set - $29.00 »
Name cards are a wonderful touch but often take up valuable space on a table. Not these!
by Bloomingdale's
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Michael Aram Sleepy Hollow Large Serving Bowl - $275.00 »
Having a great meal is brought to a whole new level when presented in a beautiful dish. I love the whimsical base and glass bowl that shows off the food.
by Bloomingdale's
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Michael Aram "Forest" Leaf Trays - $32.00 »
As the seasons change, so do the leaves. These platters can move with the moon, working fall through winter. Different from other leaf presentations, the silver doesn't pigeonhole the platters to the fall months.
by Bloomingdale's
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Cuisinart Warming Tray - $90.00 »
I used to have a fear of food getting cold before getting to the guests. Timing isn't always on my side, but warming trays have been my lifesaver multiple times.
by Bloomingdale's
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NambĆ© "Scoop" Server - $250.00 »
I have never been a fan of large, clunky chip and dip bowls. This sleek, modern version is not only a head turner, but also a great space saver.
by Bloomingdale's
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WĆ¼sthof 8 Piece Knife Set, Stainless Steel - $99.99 »
I love these WĆ¼sthof precision-cut knives. They're striking, and they save me from serving a perfectly prepared piece of meat with dull, mismatched knives.
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Folding Tray Tables - $149.00 »
Whether at intimate cocktail parties or large family gatherings, there never seems to be enough counter space. Folding tray tables are sturdy, useful, easy to move and simple to store.
by Z Gallerie
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3 Tiered Presentation Stand - $249.95 »
In the interest of time, this presentation stand does double duty. It is the perfect greeter of guests offering hors d'oeuvres to start. Then it can close out the evening with a display of sweet treats.
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Embossed Tube Bottle Wine Holder - $14.95 »
I don't like to show up to a party empty-handed. I am a fan of this elegant wine caddy because it is a classy way to share a favorite Sauvignon Blanc or Merlot.
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Swoozies | Online Catalog »
As the queen of mismatched items, I leave all the misfit bowls and spoons in the cabinet. Instead, I present delicious dips in an elegant way that is sure to add to the conversation.
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Blue Autumn Linen Table Runner by handmadebysima - $30.00 »
Beautiful linens complete the look of a room. Table runners bring something special to each season and holiday without being overzealous.
by World Market
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Birch Pillar Candle Collection - $4.99 »
Candles welcome guests to a home. These not only create an inviting ambiance, but also offer a warm glow.
by Ice Milk Aprons
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Frosty Tin Marshmallows Full Apron - $85.00 »
As a hostess, I want to be sure to protect my perfectly chosen outfit. An elegant apron ties it all together.
by World Market
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Thumb Decanter - $19.99 »
Impress your guests by acting as the house sommelier. Rather than a counter full of bottles, a decanter will present well while allowing the wine to breathe.
by Bloomingdale's
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Simply Designz Amber Collection Salad Serving Set - $37.50 »
Long gone are the days of plastic salad tongs. Whether alone or with guests, every salad deserves to travel from bowl to plate in style.
