Have you ever heard the expression "you first eat with your eyes?" In addition to the cuisine itself, food presentation and table settings play a big role in how we experience and enjoy eating.
Subsequently, they may seem like a minor detail but the napkins, plates, and other tableware at an event can make a lasting first impression on your guests and have the ability to make or break your overall theme.
Thus, it is imperative you select just the right party napkins and plates for your next party or special event.
Here are five considerations to keep in mind.
The Color Scheme - The napkins, plates, and other tableware should of course complement and add to the overall color scheme of the event.
For something sophisticated and elegant, consider white, silver, or even clear tableware.
Bright colors and patterns are appropriate for more laid back, jovial celebrations such as a children's birthday party or a Fourth of July barbeque.
These days, with an endless bevy of options when it comes to the available colors, patterns, and designs of party napkins and plates, you can find exactly what you need for your event.
Size and Shape - Just a few years ago, a standard dinner plate was used to serve...
well, everything.
Nowadays, party hosts can choose from curved, square, oval, and rectangle plates in all different sizes.
While most party napkins come in a rectangle or square shape, they are also available in a wide variety of sizes, textures, and thickness.
Small napkins and plates are ideal for cocktail parties or receptions where guests may be sampling food throughout the event as opposed to sitting down for an actual meal - think any occasion where hors d'oeuvres, appetizers, or desserts are served for the duration of the event.
Material - Party napkins and plates also come in a wide assortment of materials.
Napkins are typically made from paper while reusable napkins are made from cloth.
Cloth napkins are typically not a viable option for parties or other events, so stick with paper ones.
Disposable party plates can be made from paper, plastic, or Styrofoam.
Type of Food Being Served - When choosing the right party napkins, plates, and other tableware for your party, don't forget to consider the type of food that will be served.
For example, paper plates and thin paper napkins may not be the best choice if you plan on serving heavy, messy, or wet foods (e.
g.
spaghetti).
Instead, opt for sturdy, durable plastic plates or thick Styrofoam ones.
Green Party Napkins and Plates - Green as in environmentally friendly, not the color.
Whether you're a green enthusiast or just trying to make choices that are better for the environment and your wallet, there are a myriad of eco-friendly napkins and plates made from post-consumer recycled materials (look for the "PET" or "PETE" symbol on the packaging or the bottom of the products).
In addition, many plastic disposable plates can be recycled through your city's local recycling program.