Serve In Style With Our Favourite Essentials

Entertain: {verb} to show hospitality to

We can show hospitality towards one or many, there is so much joy in the simplest and smallest of gatherings. Whether you’re serving immediate family, or your bubble of people, coming together with family and friends, is so important, and need not be stressful.

With the holiday season upon us and let’s face it, a million things to do, we’re here to help lighten the load, check off tasks and get you into the spirit of enjoying the season with ease and relaxation.

When it comes to hosting, regardless of a dinner party, appetizers or desserts, there are a few “everyday basics” every household should have on hand. Much like pantry staples and closet essentials, having such items on hand for serving guests will take the stress off of a last minute get together and have you in great shape to host in style.

I use all of these items on a regular basis in my own home, even if it’s a simple Sunday supper. Now more than ever, I’m excited to make even the smallest of gatherings, extra special.

We’ve provided all the information as to where to purchase our suggested items below. Most are from accessible online retailers, and some are from our very own, NFDI Shop.

Dip Bowl

Salsa, spinach dip, you name it, mid-sized bowls are versatile for many occasions, dips and sauces. I’d have minimum three on hand in a classic white. They’ll go with everything, and allow the contents to be the focus.

Tea Light Vessels

Mercury glass is one of my favourite materials for its sparkle and shine. While they’re certainly festive, they work year round too. These mini tea lights offer instant sophistication to any surface, adding warmth and a sparkly glow.

Tea Lights

With an average burn time of 4 hours, you could easily go through multiple in one evening. Having a stash on hand means you won’t leave your guests in the dark.

Serving Spoons

Serving spoons are a go-to item and versatile regardless of the fare!

Cloth Napkins

There’s something to be said about the feeling of a cloth napkin at the dinner table. Not simply for special occasions, if you have them, use them! They are a great environmental choice and look better too.

Tea Spoons

I use small spoons for tea and coffee, tapenades, olives, nuts… the options are endless! I’ve collected some special ones over the years, so I keep them close at hand, not only because they are used often, but I also love the look of them.

Table Cloth

A table cloth is an easy way to dress and protect your table. Use it alone or layer with placemats or a table runner.

Small Serving Bowls

Small serving bowls are great for condiments such as salt and pepper. This avoids placing the unsightly containers on the table and transports them into something far more beautiful. Use small serving spoons alongside. Purchase via our NFDI shop!

Serveware

Having a collection of serving pieces is essential to hosting a dinner party. The basics are a large platter, and a few sizes of bowls. Add on as you see fit, however these are everyday basics.

White Dinner Plates

A classic and a must have in any kitchen. White dinner plates transition from the everyday to something more formal with ease. Great on their own, or layered with side and salad plates. You can’t go wrong with white!

Accent Plates

I have a bazillion different accent plates for many occasions. Fancy, textured, seasonal, you name it. You don’t need to fall into my obsession, however having an additional layer with an interesting, yet still neutral accent is a great addition to your essentials.

Cutting/Serving Boards

Bread, muffins, charcuterie, cookies… the options are endless for serving possibilities on a beautiful wood board. Its natural beauty will shine through as the food is devoured. These are available at our shop! Click here to purchase.

Glass Vase

I love this vase and think everyone should have it too! It’s the ideal shape/ size for florals or greens and not too tall to put in the centre of your table. In a nutshell, it’s perfect!

Table Runner

Verging on not making the list, but I do feel an essential nonetheless, a table runner adds an additional layer and texture to a table setting. My go-to is a natural jute or linen.

Taper Candle Holders

Not simply used for dinners, taper candles are double duty accessories you can leave out on a regular basis. Of course including them as a centrepiece to add a lovely glow when lit is never a bad idea to create a soft mood. I couldn’t resist purchasing multiples because I knew they would be well loved. Click here and here, to get yours.