Easy Entertaining: Take it Away!

I love having a special memento from a fantastic party – one where the hostess tapped into her creativity for a personalized affair. When I invite guests over, I like to offer them the same, especially when there are copious amounts of food left over that I know I will never be able to consume.

Instead of packing extra goodies up on paper plates or in plastic containers, I always reach into my supply of odds-and-ends china plates that I’ve picked up on my thrift shopping adventures and load them up with a tasty treat for the road. I never worry about any markings on their reverse sides – just that they are attractive and free of cracks and chips. I even let partygoers select their own plates, perhaps one that they’ll be able to use once they get home, or pass it along to someone else who will enjoy it as much as they, and I, once did.

In May 2009, Clarkson Potter will publish my book, The Find: The Housing Works Book of Decorating with Thrift Shop Treasures, Flea Market Objects, and Vintage Details. Pre-order now on www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com.