Not sure how much food you’ll need? Offer 5 to 8 different types of hors d'oeuvres for a cocktail or open house party. Count on serving 8 to 10 appetizers and 2 to 3 desserts per person.

Try using cocktail napkins to serve finger foods. Or, if you're using plates and cutlery, be sure to have plenty, as they tend to be abandoned before the second and third helpings.

Keep things organized and easy to grab. Roll flatware in large cloth napkins, tie with brightly colored ribbons, and stack them in a large wicker basket for easy grabbing.

Create different heights for serving dishes. Use cake plates with pedestals and place trays on inverted casserole dishes covered with colorful napkins.

Short on serving dishes? Make an eye-catching platter by using a mirror or a ceramic tile. You can even use your cutting board. Your guests will appreciate your creativity.