A large dinner buffet at your home does not have to overwhelm! Having basic party essentials on hand ensures a well-functioning, simple buffet celebration. Purchase white dinner plates and you will save a ton of money otherwise spent on buying paper party goods. Yes, it does mean that you will have more dishes to clean, but party guests are always willing to help out – you just have to let them!
Because your plates are basic, use napkins, table linens and decorations to define your theme or holiday celebration.
Set your buffet up on the dining room table. If you are having more than 30 people, we recommend having two platters of each dish available. If you need to use your dining room table for seating, set up the buffet in the kitchen.
Below is a listing of basic essentials you will need for a buffet of 20 people:
- 25 white dinner plates
- 25 salad plates – collect various styles
- 25 forks, knives and spoons
- silverware holder
- 25 cloth napkins
- 6-8 clear tealight candle holders
- 8 large serving platters
- 3 large serving bowls
- 1 large salad bowl
- 1 to 2 bread baskets
- Variety of serving utensils – pie servers, tongs and large spoons (wooden are nice)
- Gravy boat or sauce bowl with ladle
- Salt & pepper Shakers
- Vase for fresh flowers