I know, how much can really can go into choosing a plate for a party, right?  Well it’s actually pretty simple to select the right plate for entertaining.  There are three things to consider in choosing a party plate: size, material and color.

PLATE SIZE

The size of your meal will determine what size plates you will need:  lunch, dinner, dessert plates, etc.  This one shouldn’t be to hard to determine, if you are having a large menu then you will need larger plates like a dinner plate but if it is appetizers only you may only need a lunch or dessert plate.

• Dessert plate: approx. 6-7″
• Lunch plate: approx. 9″
• Dinner plate: approx. 10 – 12″

PLATE MATERIAL

Plastic

Plastic plates are a great option when a heavy disposable plate is needed.  In most cases they have the sturdiness to hold up as well as a real ceramic plate would but can be tossed after the meal.  They usually are more costly than a paper plate but hold up better to cutting or liquid foods,  Plastic won’t absorb the liquid and get soggy like paper.

Paper

Paper plates are the least expensive option and have a variety of weights available, from thin to as thick as a plastic plate.  Paper is great when cost is an issue, such as for a large event, they can be bought in large quantities for very little.    Since they are thin and paper they will absorb any liquid and can be flimsy.  Something to consider if your guests are walking around with their plates.

CERAMIC

Ceramic plates is a broad category for any non-disposable plate or I sometimes call a “real” plate.  They can be made out of a variety of materials,  ceramic includes stoneware, china and porcelain.  There is also glass, metal, wood, melamine, and even plastic.  Real plates are arguably the most ascetically beautiful option, there really is nothing like a real plate.   For a one-time event they are the most expensive option however for a recurring event they can be a better investment over time.  The one disadvantage you can’t get away from is they must be washed, unless you rent them, where they still have to be washed just not by you.

PLATE COLOR

Food is the really the focal piece of the event so the plates you choose should complement them.  You also have to take into account your theme and color scheme as well.  Okay this may not be the most beautiful plate of food (or the healthiest) but it shows when you have a lot of colors going on, sometimes the best option is just plain old white.

• Yellow & white food:  for a menu with a bland color palette, choose a fun bright color to make the food pop.  Serve chicken and rice on a bright teal plate.
• Colorful bright food – if menu is colorful already don’t let the plate compete with  instead add a nice background to it with a neutral color.  Serve a crisp green salad with red strawberries on a white plate and that salad will pop beautifully.
• Dark food:  pick a light color to contrast the food.  If the menu is hamburgers  and beans a pastel color will create a contrast between the food and the plate.