Four essentials for entertaining with style
When hosting a party, your attention is drawn to myriad details, from the guest list to grocery shopping to gussying up the house. What you put on the table, from the food to the flatware, expresses your style.

To create some magic, simply equip yourself with a few key entertaining accessories. These four entertaining essentials will help set the right mood and make you look like a seasoned hostess.

Barware: It nearly goes without saying that plastic cups are best saved for tailgates. If you are entertaining at home, you'll want a full set of wine glasses, beer glasses, and cocktail glasses. Personalized barware is a nice touch.

Serving dishes: Having a few "go-to" platters and trays can make serving food - from hors d'oeuvres to dessert - much easier and more appetizing.

Dinnerware: Most people prefer to eat off real plates, so unless you're hosting a big backyard barbeque or picnic, it's best to invest in some easy-care salad and dinner plates. That means dishwasher safe earthenware or melamine dinnerware. Designed with seasonal themes, you can reserve these plates for parties only or use them every day.

Linens: Like real plates and glasses, cloth napkins are a simple way to dress up your table. A table runner adds color and texture to your table — and can help carry out a theme. A tablecloth, placemats, or chargers can protect your table from spills and heat.

These entertaining essentials will set the mood and get you through many parties with friends and family.