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Beyond the Dining Room Table By Kathleen Moran, House and Home Writer
It is no secret that individuals look forward to the holidays and sharing a home-cooked meal with family and friends. However, serving a wonderful meal and accommodating guests goes beyond just the dining room table. Overall, whatever one’s entertaining and serving needs may be, it all comes down to a little creativity and knowing which furniture pieces will be most effective in a given space. Larry Piser, owner of Piser Designs in South Bend, has found his niche in “creating special projects for special places” as many of his wooden furniture pieces are custom designed. Recognizing that each project is unique, it is important to start with “corralling the design process to discover what a client likes and dislikes.” Many decisions and individual preferences are considered in the design process. For example, if a homeowner is interested in a buffet table, one should consider height, space requirements and desired look — whether it be enclosed or open and airy. A furniture piece’s intended function also plays a role when a homeowner wants a serving and staging area. As Piser pointed out, “If the function of a buffet table is more in line with storage needs, drawers can be used for stacked plates, whereas sliding doors are great in situations when space is limited and an opened drawer or door could potentially bump into a chair.” 8 | Michiana House and Home | November 2020 |
SERVICE ON WHEELS Bar carts continue to trend in home decor, and it’s little wonder why, with them offering a serving edge. Their inclusions into holiday celebrations can greatly reduce headaches. In particular, bar carts make fabulous dessert and drink stations. For smaller, more intimate gatherings, party favors can also be included on a lower tier. No matter how you use them, be sure to get into the holiday spirit while using them. • Employ garland that matches the occasion — whether fall leaves, metallic tinsel, more rustic pine or faux fur — and include other flourishes like ceramic turkeys, acorns, pumpkins, ornaments, pinecones, miniature trees, candy canes, etc. • Is your cart stationed near an outlet? Place a drip coffeepot or a single-serve coffeemaker — like a Keurig — on its top, and offer a selection of festive mugs and all the little things guests require: creamer, stirring sticks, syrup and so on. • Since most bar carts have a lower tier, there’s the option to use it for seasonal displays like a cornucopia or small Christmas village. • Light up your cart, whether with good old Christmas lights, fairy lights or LED light strips, which offer color-changing options. Also, don’t forget electric candles for a particularly cozy ambiance. • Don’t forget the wall behind where you station your cart. Here is the ideal location to hang a wreath or a festive poster. photos: shutterstock.com
