Which holiday dinnerware sets are best?
The holidays bring friends and family around, both near and far, to spend time together. These get-togethers often include a feast of various foods presented on festive holiday dinnerware. A holiday dinnerware set that is both cheery and stylish is the Spode Christmas Tree 12-Piece Dinnerware Set. This set features a beautifully decorated tree surrounded by presents and toys done in a vintage style. They are also microwave and dishwasher-safe, making it a smart buy for anyone wanting durable holiday dinnerware.
What to know before you buy a holiday dinnerware
Tradition of holiday dinnerware
The history of dinnerware dates back as early as the Middle Ages. But decorative dinnerware became a trend only later, with more designs appearing during the 19th century. As it has become more commercialized, holiday dinnerware has consistently been a decorative and functional piece of any festive meal in the United States and England. This dinnerware is reserved for specific holidays celebrated during the month of December, with designs including winter village scenes, holiday characters and many colorful shapes and patterns.
Best times to buy
Holiday dinnerware can be purchased all year long, but the best deals happen at certain times of the year. Typically, these sets go on sale starting in October and November, with deals and discounts increasing around Black Friday. Another great time to buy is after the holidays. You can score deep discounts on seasonal merchandise after the holidays due to most stores clearing out to make way for spring collections.
Ways to decorate your dining table
In addition to dinnerware, you may want to consider purchasing holiday serving trays or table runners to match the dinnerware you decide to buy. Pairing these items together to decorate your dining table is also called creating a tablescape. Other items to consider include candle holders, name place cards, charger plates and cloth napkins. You can find these dining table accessories in almost every color, making it simple to match the color scheme of your holiday dinnerware.
What to look for in quality holiday dinnerware
Unique designs
Even though most of the holiday dinnerware you’ll find will have very traditional designs, some unique sets exist. And in addition to the designs, the color schemes can set one piece apart from the rest. For example, you may come across sets with winter landscapes but done in only certain colors. This helps people who want certain colors in their tablescape and overall decorating for the holidays.
Large sets
For those times when you may be entertaining a party of 24, splurging for that larger set may be worth it. Larger sets may only include plates, salad bowls and mugs. If you think you may only need to buy plates in large quantities, most styles offer that, too. Making this investment can come in handy when you plan on hosting large groups for holiday dinner parties as well as donating them for private work parties.
Dishwasher- and microwave-safe
Having a sink full of dirty dishes that need to be hand-washed after spending the entire day cooking can be a defeating task. Make things easy on yourself by looking for dishwasher-safe dinnerware. Microwave-safe dinnerware is another great feature to search for: It can expedite reheating leftovers and make serving warmed-up dishes like desserts and sauces easier.
How much you can expect to spend on holiday dinnerware
Holiday dinnerware sets can be expensive, with some sets costing as much as $400. However, most of these sets cost between $45 and $190.
Holiday dinnerware FAQ
How long does holiday dinnerware last?
A. Depending on how well they are kept, these dinnerware sets can last for decades. Store your dinnerware in a safe place where it is least likely to get cracked or broken. Constant use and heavy washing can wear down dinnerware over time.
Does holiday dinnerware chip easily?
A. Using sharp utensils and frequent dishwashing can cause dinnerware to chip or fade. Using regular utensils and washing by hand can help prevent chipping.
Is holiday dinnerware a good gift?
A. Holiday dinnerware can be a great housewarming or wedding gift for a couple. If a person enjoys entertaining guests and loves to cook, this is a thoughtful gift choice for them.
What’s the best holiday dinnerware to buy?
Top holiday dinnerware
Spode Christmas Tree 12-Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for Four
What you need to know: This festive Christmas tree print in a classic plate set design is made to last for years.
What you’ll love: The decorative tree with presents nestled below in the illustration sparks feelings of joy and excitement that come with unwrapping presents during the holidays.
What you should consider: Reviews mention that the pieces are made in China, not England (Spode is an English brand).
Top holiday dinnerware for the money
Gibson Home Christmas Toile 16-Piece Dinnerware Set
What you need to know: This set features a quaint winter village in a vintage style that is sure to evoke nostalgia and togetherness.
What you’ll love: Sixteen pieces for under $100 gives you the most for your money when it comes to entertaining for the holidays.
What you should consider: Some reviews mention print defects and broken dishware upon arrival.
Worth checking out
Pfaltzgraff Christmas Day Dinnerware Set, Service For 8, White
What you need to know: This set features a charming Christmas tree and holly leaf motif.
What you’ll love: It’s made of durable porcelain, so it will last for a long time. It’s also microwave- and dishwasher-safe.
What you should consider: Customers have reported occasional warping or minor imperfections.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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