Five Hosting Items to "Shop" from Parents, Grandparents and Family Members
- Nichole Groom
- Jan 24
- 6 min read
Updated: Feb 21
For generations, it was simply expected that your wedding gift registry included china settings, silver place settings, quality drinkware and the like. Even I registered for china and glassware, while formal silver seemed a bit over the top. Today, people are moving away from these registry items, simply not buying them, or even getting rid of them due to space or use considerations.
But - have you every checked out your parents' or grandparents' entertaining pieces? They may be stored away in an attic or basement. Or they could be in the china cabinet that hasn't been opened in ages. Regardless, you may be surprised at the elegance and character their china and glassware hold.
I often refer to 'shopping your house' when it comes to party supplies, serveware and other hosting items. The same holds true for your parents, grandparents or other family members. You may not want the Mason jar collection or the old magazines, but I guarantee they have some fantastic stuff!
Before we get into five cool things you could borrow from parents, grandparents or other family members, let's cover a few ground rules.
Consider these 'rules' before borrowing hosting items
These items belong to them - they're not obligated to let you borrow them
If you aren't prepared for the potential of someone not letting you borrow something, stop there. Just don't ask. Even they aren't using their china or glassware, they may have a good reason to not lend them out. Even if you think it's not a good reason, there's no obligation to share with you. They don't need to offer an explanation - be respectful of the decision.
If a family member does lend items - be clear on expectations and care
If your family member is open to you borrowing some items, you are in luck! Cover all bases when it comes to what they're lending:
Agree on the date you'll pick up and return. If they're in an attic or basement, offer to help get them out of storage. When you've agreed on the dates and times, stick to it.
Review the care instructions. For instance, china with gold detailing should not go in the dishwasher. Same holds true for silver. If they have other requests for cleaning or handling, honor these directions.
Use with care. Don't place items in a place or situation where they can get broken. If you have concerns about the item's safety, don't use it and come up with another plan.
Clean very well and pack up carefully. When you're finished with it, clean every item completely. Pack up in packaging originally used. If the packaging isn't in great shape or risks damage, find a new box or replace with something sturdier.
Show your appreciation. When the party is over and you're returning the items, consider bringing flowers, cookies or a little treat when you return everything as a special 'thank you.' After all, this saved you money and added to your party's vibe. A little gratitude goes a long way!
Now that we've reviewed those details, let's look at the five treasures you may find waiting for you with a family member!
#1 - Punch bowl
I'm calling it: it's time we bring back the punch bowl. Punch bowls were the staple for entertaining in the fifties through the nineties. I remember attending bridal and baby showers where a punch bowl was the centerpiece of the drink table. Anyone else remember the lime or strawberry sherbet floating at the top? Good times.
I don't know why they fell out of favor, but using a punch bowl for a signature cocktail or welcome drink makes a lot of sense. They possess a vintage flair. Placing them on your beverage table becomes part of the decor. They're perfect for a batch cocktail or champagne punch when hosting a larger party. Plus, it's a convenient way for guests to serve themselves.
#2 - Candle sticks or a candelabra
I think three-wick candles slowly replaced taper candles and candlesticks when it comes to natural lighting at a party. I've gotten away from using traditional candlesticks as well, and I can't say I've seen them as much on registries or in stores. But talk about a statement!
Grouping tapered candles and candlesticks, whether made of a complementary material, or are a mix of styles and colors, brings a touch of drama. The open flame creates more light and adds height to a table setting. Pairing candlesticks with a simple floral setting will catch your guests' eyes in an instant. And since they aren't used as much, it's an unexpected element to your decor.
PLEASE - use care when placing your candles! Sit them on sturdy furniture or tables, where people won't be reaching over for food or drinks. Keep an eye on dripping wax, and extinguish the candle or switch it out if it's too low. Confirm the candle sits firmly in the candlestick - no wiggling! Use wax dots or a wax adhesive to firmly secure candles in their holders. They're easy to find online or in craft stores.
Imagine a collection of vintage candlesticks as the centerpiece of your dinner or main serving table.
#3 - China, silver and other serveware
I have china place settings myself, and love to use it for dinner gatherings, Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners. Sometimes I get it out on evenings where my husband and I are staying in to cook (like New Year's Eve). It's always a delight when family and guests comment on using 'real' china, creating a welcoming table ready for lots of delicious food and conversation.
I also like that full china and silver settings have such a variety of pieces for different uses. Setting the coffee cups and saucers signals coffee and dessert are on the menu. Using separate salad plates helps manage courses as well as cleanup before the main course. Did you know that some silver settings have pieces like shrimp or pickle forks? Salad plates are also wonderful hors d'oeuvres plates if you're not serving a full dinner. Peruse the pieces for inspiration, and to help plan for their use.
#4 - Vintage or holiday tablecloths and linens
I own one tablecloth for my dining room table. And it's pretty boring. Cloth tablecloths and napkins feel like another entertaining item that have fallen to the wayside. Yet, it's just one more way to bring some polish, fun or sophistication to an event, depending on the look. And there was a time everyone had multiple tablecloths for both every day use and entertaining.
Handle tablecloths and linens you borrow with care. Inspect for stains - over time, food or drinks spilled on them can darken the fabric. Check carefully so you aren't surprised when you go to use it. Also know the material to set your iron on the correct setting and wash it (you may need to dry clean). If anything spills on the tablecloth while in use, address the stain as quickly as possible. It's a bit higher maintenance, but it's a great addition to any type of serving or dinner table.
#5 - Decorative items - vases, centerpieces, etc.
A bouquet of flowers in a vintage vase of either colored or painted glass is all you need for the perfect table. "Old School" holiday centerpieces or statuettes creates nostalgia and interest in your area. Ceramic pieces from the the later part of last century bring a bit of Americana to the party. If you're looking to create a vibe of a simpler time or bring nostalgia to your event, fun pieces like this can achieve that look.
Keep scale in mind - don't let these pieces get lost on a table or buffet, or be so large they take away from the functional space. Place items where they're secure. Use the items for their intended use - don't place food or drinks in anything not intended for that purpose.
Final tip: take the time to get the story!
Outside of the practicality of borrowing items vs. buying them, having an opportunity like this is a gift. Find out if there's a story behind your Grandma's china pattern. Ask what your parents' wedding was like. Learn about the travels your aunt took to bring home that vase. And share those stories with guests. It may be one of the most memorable moments of your party, and your life.
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