I come from a long line of innovative “entertainers” who have wonderful culinary skills and love to cook for the holidays, and I’ve followed in my family’s footsteps. The perennial dilemma that each of us faces is that long list of invited company that way outnumbers the amount of dishes in the cupboard!

Of course I urge you to use reusable tableware as much as possible, but when that isn't an option, here are some of my favorite high-design disposable tableware picks for upcoming holidays and special occasions. I can’t wait to use them to “wow” my guests.

The 2010 World Series is set for October 27. Choose your favorite team, if you haven’t already, and have a party with tableware from gamedayparties.com. Can you tell who I’m rooting for?

[Image: gamedayparties.com]

Why do children and adults alike love Halloween? Is there a secret candy maker’s society that has us all brainwashed? I buy all of my favorite candy every year, hoping that the doorbell will keep ringing with trick-or-treaters before I can say “Boo!” Caspari (casparionline.com) has been producing exquisitely designed and printed paper products for more than 60 years. The company has a line of matching accessories including invitations, place cards, placemats and lacquerware in glistening colors. The square black and white plate, pumpkin napkins and matching orange cups are perfect for Halloween festivities.  

[Image: casparionline.com]

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love Thanksgiving. The food is always delicious, football games are on TV and the fallen leaves are marking the end of the season. Just the thing for mealtime: Caspari’s Spice Jaipur paisley pattern, bordered square dinner plate, matching napkins and rings.

[Images: casparionline.com]

From December 1 through 9, we celebrate Hanukkah, lighting candles, spinning dreidels and eating delicious potato latkes...maybe from these blue and white beautifully drawn Caspari Chinoiserie plates!  I’m also in love with the black lacquer reusable bamboo flatware to finish off the set.

[Images: casparionline.com]
          
December 25 is Christmas; bring out the holly, stay up late for Santa and gather around the tree for a beautiful day. Then enjoy your holiday dinner on tableware from Ferris Wheels & Carousels (ferriswheelsandcarousels.com).

[Image: ferriswheelsandcarousels.com]

At the end of December, it’s time to usher in the New Year with high hopes for joy and prosperity in 2011. I love the black-and-white “Black Tie” theme from cocktails through dinner!

[Images: casparionline.com]

[Images: platesandnapkins.com]

[Black Tie Cocktails Image: paperproductsdesign.com]

Here’s to successful entertaining and the many joys of visiting with friends and family, and passing down your love of holiday traditions (as I have with our two boys!).      

[Main image: Glorious Maple Glam from casparionline.com]