The table is set, the candles are lit, and your roast is cooking away. But while that delicious dinner might smell spectacular in your kitchen, do you have the right tools to bring it to the table?  Don’t overlook these five essential host-helpers:

Flatware: From cake knives to salad sets, the right utensils get all your delicacies safely from platter to plate. Make sure each dish has at least one large serving piece, or use several if the dish is messy or contains small morsels. Have plenty of spoons and ladles for any sauces and liquids, and sharpen your carving knives for clean and easy slicing.

Bowls and Platters: You can never have too many serving dishes, especially if any guests intend to bring their favorite treats to share. If you are serving your meal family style, many dinnerware collections offer options for matching your serveware to your place settings. For a more collected look, mix and match a variety of styles, and don’t forget different sizes: your pumpkin pie and turkey gravy won’t need the same type of dish!

Pitchers: Be sure to have several options to choose from, especially if you’re serving wine or spirits. Have water easily accessible for guests to help themselves, and consider a fun option like sparkling apple cider in a colorful carafe if you have little ones at your table.

Dessert: No party would be complete without a bevy of treats to satisfy your sweet tooth! From pie pans to cake stands, there are a variety of ways to present your desserts. To be sure that each slice is cut to perfection, have cake knives and servers ready for any cakes, torts, or pies. For a lasting impression, display smaller desserts such as cookies or candies on a dramatic two- or three-tiered server, like these glamorous ones from L’Objet:

Coffee and Tea: At the end of a grand meal, there’s nothing like the warmth and rich aroma of a hot nightcap. Whether you serve coffee or prefer tea, both are often accompanied by sugar and cream, and don’t forget those darling spoons for stirring! If you’re using a matching set of cups and saucers, consider using some slightly larger plates in the same style to serve biscuits or cookies to munch or dunk!

For more Holiday inspiration, click here.

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