Party Charlie Party Planning Tip #21 – Disposable Ware – Making it easy with napkins, plates, utensils, and drink ware
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As soon as you know you’re having a party, watch for sales. In party planning, last minute = more money + more stress. So shop early for disposable ware, and buy only heavy-duty ware, whether it’s paper or plastic.
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Paper Napkins <p< < p=””> </p< <>
Paper napkins come in three standard sizes. Make sure you buy at least the minimum thickness, which is “2-ply” or “double ply.” <p< < p=””> </p< <>
Cocktail 5” x 5” (small)
Luncheon 12-7/8” x 12-7/8” (medium)
Dinner 15” x 17” (large) <p< < p=””> </p< <>
Consider the type of food you’re serving. For instance, if you’re having messy food such as barbeque, you’ll want to use dinner napkins regardless whether it’s a dinner or lunch gathering. You also might want to have disposable hand wipes or wet napkins available for a barbeque. If you’re only offering coffee and dessert (cookies or brownies, for example), then luncheon or cocktail napkins are just fine. <p< < p=””> <p< < p=””> </p< <></p< <>
Cloth Napkins <p< < p=””> </p< <>
You can add a fancy touch to your table setting by using cloth napkins. This is perfectly acceptable even if you’re using disposable plates and utensils. <p< < p=””> <p< < p=””> </p< <></p< <>
Plates <p< < p=””> </p< <>
Whether you’re using designer disposable ware or standard disposables from your local supermarket or party store, make sure they’re sturdy enough to withstand a full meal and won’t allow food juices or sauces to soak through. Provide additional plates. I recommend two per person. And don’t forget the bowls if you’re having soup or salad, side dishes or ice cream. <p< < p=””> <p< < p=””> </p< <></p< <>
Utensils <p< < p=””> </p< <>
Make sure you have plenty of forks, knives, and spoons. If you’re using plastic utensils, make sure the knives are strong enough to cut any meat you’re serving and that the forks and spoons won’t snap off in your food. <p< < p=””> <p< < p=””> </p< <></p< <>
Drink Ware <p< < p=””> </p< <>
There are many types of plastic drink ware from which to choose. I recommend 10-ounce clear plastic tumblers. However, I recognize that some people like to have different sizes for different beverages. And if you’re doing a champagne toast, I agree it’s best to have a special glass for it. Here are some types of plastic drink ware that is readily available: <p< < p=””> </p< <>
4-ounce plastic champagne glasses
5-ounce plastic wine glasses
12-ounce plastic margarita glasses
6-ounce plastic martini glasses
10-ounce all-purpose plastic tumblers
16-ounce all-purpose plastic tumblers (beer) <p< < p=””> <p< < p=””> </p< <></p< <>
Party Charlie is a monthly show on Actors Reporter, a channel on the Actors Podcast Network, a Pepper Jay Production. <p< < p=””></p< <>
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