Imaginative Plate Ware and Flatware
Using fun, imaginative plate ware is a way to get creative with a cocktail party. Bold ceramics can really bring the colors of some dishes alive. Consider using plate ware that falls in line with the theme. The plate ware should make just as much of an impression as the other details.
Plates
With small servings of food, entrée plates have no business at a cocktail party. Use dessert plates, which are usually eight inches or smaller. You can also use B&B plates, which tend to be five inches or smaller. A set of small ramekins or colorful prep containers, both two inches or smaller, can be used as petite hors d'oeuvre plates.
Flatware
Since the menu will be in bite-size form, forks and knives won't be needed. Still, raid the utensil drawer to unearth treasures acceptable for use at a cocktail party. Fun chopsticks, seafood forks, and demitasse spoons all make great accessories at a cocktail party. Create a little container of metal and glass bar picks for easy, bite-size shish kebabs.
ssential
Never underestimate the use of a utensil as a serving vessel. For example, a soup spoon can function as a bite-size portion platform. A soup spoon makes a great vehicle for pâtés, foie gras, or braised meats.
Dress up stationary items, like the cheese board and charcuterie plate, with fancy cheese knives. Check your local home goods store for great additions such as mustard spoons, oyster forks, and spreaders.
Glassware as Plate Ware
Little things come in small packages. Guests will delight in the presentation of bite-size appetizers in miniature dishes. Transform funky glassware into petite plate ware. Try shot glasses to serve shooters of soup instead of spirits. Guests will surely gobble salmon tartar if it is served in port glasses with demitasse spoons.
Cocktail Napkins
It is possible to service an entire cocktail party without utensils and plates. Cocktail napkins are versatile and easy. Avoid using cloth cocktail napkins when tomato-based products are served. A nicely monogrammed paper cocktail napkin would go over well at a large cocktail party.
Platters
When platters are filled with a beautiful presentation of hors d'oeuvres, guests will notice the food. When a platter has been ravished of most of the food, guests will notice the platter. A platter for passing should be beautiful and complement the colors of the cuisine and theme. Be creative when looking for platters for passing. Classic, high-end cocktail parties can benefit from silver platters. A cuisine inspired by Provence would best make use of gold and maroon colored platters.
