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 (ARA)
- We all want our holiday parties to be perfect. We plan a wonderful
menu and cook and clean for days in advance. But many people
spend all their time and energy on the food, and neglect the
other important aspects of a party. Table décor and room
arrangement are just as important as good food to the success
of a gathering.
Unfortunately, most hosts don't
think about these things until the last minute, and often just
throw something together. Here are some ideas for creating a
functional and attractive environment for your party, with some
help from the experts at FoodTV.com.
The best way to avoid stress
is to put together a plan in advance. Think about where your
guests will sit. Don't try to cram too many people around a small
dining room table. If necessary, add another table and cover
them both with one long cloth. The point of a party is to provide
a fun opportunity to socialize and that won't happen if guests
are squeezed uncomfortably together. If your chairs won't fit,
try using a bench on one side of your table.
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Another way to make more space
is to place all the food on a buffet table. Set up one room as
the buffet area, and once guests have been seated, move a few
dishes to the table so people don't have to get up for seconds.
You can also set up a separate dessert table in advance, so you
don't have to worry about it after dinner.
Setting a festive holiday table
begins with the right china. Holiday Ribbons by Waterford is
a fine bone china with an elegant red ribbon and mistletoe design
that will complement any decorating scheme. |
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Add some edibles as table arrangements
such as apples, cinnamon sticks, pears, gourds and even dried
corn nuts. Another idea is to fill interesting jars or containers
with flowers, cranberries or dried fruit. Throw in some candles
arranged among little heaps of apples and nuts.
Keep centerpieces and decorations
low so they don't interfere with conversation or with the food.
Boughs of fresh pine or cedar are an easy and fragrant decoration
that won't get in the way. To complete the holiday look use fabric
remnants to make holiday table runners or simply wrap your table
in holiday paper. Gold or silver paper makes a dramatic statement
and will set off decorative china well.
Finally, make sure you have all
the serving pieces and utensils you need and that they are washed
and ready to go. A variety of accessories vital for entertaining
are available in Waterford's Holiday Ribbons design such as a
large turkey platter, an elegant cake plate and server, a chip
and dip tray and even a decorative trivet.
So when you start thinking about
your next party, don't just focus on the menu. Think about your
decorations and arrange your rooms in advance, and you'll be
able to enjoy your gathering as much as your guests. |
