Tip 8: Flatware and Glassware

"If you hosting are large party with lots of cocktailing and mingling, consider stemless glasses to minimize the spill factor. And, do consider renting your glassware as it can be inexpensive and will make having extra glassware on hand easy. However, for smaller parties and wine tastings, bring out your best-looking stemware. I love Riedel stemware and found a less expensive line of it, but equally as beautiful, at Bed Bath and Beyond."

"The same goes for your flatware for large parties, consider rental. There is no need to invest in extra place settings if you do not have them on hand. If you are looking for casual plasticware check out the good looking silver plastic flatware from Party City. It looks so good, it is hard to tell its plastic unless you are holding the flatware in your hand."

Monica's Picks:

Halls Rental, 6130 West Howard Street (at Lehigh Avenue, Niles); 847-929-2222.

Crate & Barrel (Multiple Locations)


Photo: Courtesy of Peter Rosenbaum Photography