Top 10 Must Haves for Entertaining

I asked my dear friend Melissa from Truly Chic Inspirations to write a post for my site regarding entertaining, a passion of hers that she has turned into a business! She decided to do a Top 10 Must Haves for Entertaining. Here, in her own words, is Melissa!

{All images with the exception of the games and dessert are from the website of my FAVORITE home store, Pottery Barn! The games are from Pottery Barn Kids and the dessert is from Williams Sonoma.}

1. White serving dish – Having a white dish gives more attention to the food that was prepared. Plus, white dishes give a crisp and clean look.
2. Fresh Flowers – A quick trip to the grocery store to pick up fresh flowers can help create a centerpiece.
3. Fabric Napkins – Having a set of fabric napkins on hand for those special guests will give a touch of restaurant style, while in a comfy home.
4. Music – Set the tone of the event with music. For example, playing soft music during a dinner party helps to heighten the theme of the dinner and the evening.
5. Ice Bucket/Wine Chiller – To help things run smooth for your guests giving them access to ice & drinks is considerate and less work on the hostess, that is until it is refill time.
6. Candles - Having candles on hand for any home entertaining event is an important must have. Different shape, sizes, vases, and scents bring amazing decor.
7. Wine Glasses – A set of wine glasses are idea for any gathering, dinner part, cocktail hour, girls night, etc.
8. Games – Board games, card games, & trivia are not only ice breakers but a blast to play together.
9. Table cloth OR Place mat setting – Having a table cloth on hand helps to “dress” an area.
10. Dessert! – After dinner, just because, or to celebrate, guests love to enjoy dessert.

Thanks for sharing, Melissa! Would you like to be a guest contributor on A Sweet Spot: Home? Email me at carrie@asweetspothome.com.