Entertaining Must-Haves: The Essentials Every Stylish Host Needs
Hosting is an art — a delicate balance of warmth, intention, and style. Whether you’re gathering friends for cocktails, hosting a dinner party, or curating a full weekend celebration, the magic is always in the details. The way you welcome your guests, set the table, and craft the atmosphere tells a story — one of care, celebration, and connection.
Over the years, I’ve learned that having a few well-chosen essentials makes all the difference. Today, I’m sharing my curated list of entertaining must-haves — timeless pieces every host should own to make each gathering feel effortless and elegant.
Photography by Amy Anaiz
(Note: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission when you shop through these links — at no additional cost to you. Every product featured is thoughtfully selected to align with my style and recommendations.)
1. The Bar Cart & Cocktail Essentials
A stylish bar cart is more than storage — it’s a statement. It invites guests to gather, unwind, and connect over something beautifully made. These are my top picks to elevate your cocktail setup:
Kalman Polished Stainless Steel & Walnut Bar Tool Set
Sleek and functional with warm wood details. Perfect for crafting everything from a Negroni to a mocktail.
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Ralph Lauren Wyatt Cocktail Shaker
A true statement piece for the home bar. Crafted in sleek stainless steel with the sophistication only Ralph Lauren can deliver, this shaker combines form and function for the perfect cocktail ritual.
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Roselli Trading Company Deco Bar Tool Set
Sleek, sculptural, and inspired by vintage design, this Art Deco-style bar tool set is both functional and decorative. It’s the kind of piece that instantly elevates any bar cart while making mixology a visual pleasure.
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Shell Cocktail Picks (Set of 4)
The small detail that makes a big impression. Use these chic shell-adorned picks to garnish martinis, display fruit, or add elegance to your hors d’oeuvres presentation.
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2. Platters & Display Trays
Presentation sets the tone. Beautiful trays and platters elevate even the simplest dishes. From cheese boards to dessert displays, these are essentials every entertainer needs:
Mango Wood Scallop Serving Board (18x10)
Natural texture and scalloped edges make this board a standout for charcuterie or appetizers.
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Godinger Hammered Stainless Steel Serving Tra
Sleek, durable, and timeless. This tray adds a touch of understated glamour to any tablescape or bar setup — perfect for serving cocktails, desserts, or displaying your favorite barware.
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MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Ceramic Serving Platter
A true statement piece that brings charm and whimsy to your table. Hand-painted with their iconic check pattern, this platter adds personality and polish to any spread.
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Crate & Barrel Octavia Large Marble Board with Cheese Knives
Elegant and functional, this cool marble board comes with coordinating knives for effortless serving. Its clean lines and luxe texture make it perfect for everything from charcuterie to desserts.
3. Napkins & Table Linens
Photo by Amy Anaiz
The right linens add polish and personality. I love mixing textures — soft cotton dinner napkins for meals and playful cocktail napkins for drinks and desserts.
Embroidered Cocktail Napkins
Embroidered Cocktail Napkins – Perfect for your next dinner party with a touch of personalized charm.
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Birch Lane Wooden Interlock Napkin Rings (Set of 4)
Crafted from solid wood, these interlocking rings bring natural warmth and architectural interest to your table. A perfect finishing touch for linen or cotton napkins, blending organic materials with elevated design.
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The Details Make the Difference
The art of entertaining isn’t just about what you serve — it’s how you make people feel. Every thoughtful touch — from your barware to your napkins — tells your guests they’re valued.
Explore more of my curated entertaining collections on my ShopMy page:
4. Plates, Cups & Serveware
Photo by Collin Pierson
These are the unsung heroes of entertaining — pieces that mix functionality with style. Keep a few sets of neutral-toned serveware for effortless pairing across themes.
White Appetizer Plates
Minimalist yet refined, perfect for small bites or sweet endings.
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Modern Vintage Stainless Steel Dessert Cups (Set of 4)
A chic and versatile must-have. Perfect for layered desserts, mousse, sorbet, or fruit parfaits, these clear glass cups add elegance to every presentation.
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Cosette Glass Cocktail Glasses (Set of 4)
With soft curves and modern elegance, these glasses add the perfect finishing touch to any cocktail or mocktail. A stylish staple for your home bar or dinner table, designed to make every pour feel like a celebration.
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Explore the Full Collection
Every detail — from the shaker to the serving board — tells a story of intention and style. These are the little luxuries that transform hosting into an art form and turn gatherings into meaningful moments.
If you loved this curated list, explore the complete edit of Entertaining Must-Haves and discover more of my favorite finds for hosting beautifully all season long.
Shop the Full Collection Here: Entertaining Must-Haves Collection on ShopMy
Photography by Amy Anaiz
Entertaining is an opportunity to express creativity, generosity, and love. These essentials are more than just beautiful objects — they’re the tools that help us connect, create memories, and celebrate meaningfully.
As you prepare for your next gathering, remember: it’s not about perfection, it’s about intention. The right pieces simply help bring that vision to life — with elegance, ease, and heart.
Until next time,
Live, Love, Party
xx Akeshi
