Everything You Need if You’re Planning a Party (and Want To Stay Sane)

We love any reason to break out the “fancy” plates, and this four-piece glazed stoneware set makes every occasion feel like a party. The bow design adds just enough flair but won’t clash with the rest of your decor. Plus, they’re dishwasher- and microwave-safe. ($72/4-piece set, Anthropologie)

There’s just something about ice cubes in fun, surprising shapes that makes a silly little beverage taste better. This large ice cube tray comes with a lid and makes up to 105 rounded ice cubes in one sitting. Once frozen, just twist the BPA-free plastic mold and release into the storage container and enjoy ice for days. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

The best scents are the ones that are strong enough to transport you and your guests but pleasant enough to avoid causing headaches. This Volupsa candle is made with hand-poured coconut wax that smells like a freshly cut pine or fir tree and will transform your space into a cozy, woodsy oasis. ($15+, Anthropologie)

A fondue kit makes for a creative dessert as well as a fun activity to experience with your guests. This one is under $30 and comes with four roasting forks and small bowls for all your fixings. Just plug in the warming base, add cheese or chocolate, and let the dipping begin. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

In a world of chic and shiny cocktail shakers, it’s important to find one that actually makes the process easier. This shaker from Yeti has a leak-resistent lid and twist cap for spill-proof pouring. Customers also rave about its double-wall vacuum insulated vessel that keeps drinks icy, without making your hands cold. ($60, Yeti)  

This split-level board comes with everything you need to put together a cheese board that’s a work of art. The upper semicircle has a groove to keep crackers or veggies in line, while the ceramic bowls (which store easily on the lower level) are ideal for filling with hummus, honey, jam, or other dips and dressings. Plus, a small drawer pops out with three cheese knives. It’s made of bamboo, so it’s easy to wipe clean when the snacking portion of the evening is over. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

Just when we thought we had completed our collection of Icon Juice Glasses, Anthropologie releases new designs. They’re under $20, which makes it even easier for us to justify their perpetual standing in our shopping carts. Our current faves? The tiniest sliver of pumpkin pie and the bowtie pasta. ($16, Anthropologie) 

This portable, outdoor LED lamp is functional enough for camping trips, but aesthetically pleasing enough for an outdoor dinner or holiday happy hour. It has a rechargeable battery that can be charged via an USB-C cable and a retractable stand, so you can adjust to your liking. You can switch between cool or warm lighting, depending on your vibe. ($17.09, Walmart)

Serving out of food containers? Not us. Make your meticulously decorated table stand out with this large porcelain serving platter. Choose from five vibrant painted designs, including a very cute “Home Sweet Home” theme you can use throughout the year. ($69, Rifle Paper Co) 

Keep all of your holiday bevs and bubbles chilled throughout the night with this metal beverage tub. The brushed gold and oval shape look chic (not your usual eyesore), and its 14.5-liter capacity means there’s plenty of room for multiple bottles. ($30, Target) 

The last thing you want to worry about at a party is broken glass, so these plates are a great solve. They’re made out of heavy-duty food-grade materials like wheat straw fiber and starch so they won’t shatter if dropped. They feel lightweight in your hand but they’re durable enough to survive multiple dishwasher cycles. Plus, they’re microwave-safe. (12.99+, Walmart) 

Designed to look like a mason jar, this 1-gallon dispenser puts your signature drink on display. It has a stainless steel spout that’ll never drip or spill, plus a removable cylinder you can fill with ice to keep contents within cool. Customers confirm it really doesn’t leak, unlike many beverage dispensers on the market. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

Kickstart the deep conversations with this get-to-know-you card game. There are 150 questions and three levels to progress through as the night goes on. Customers say it’s great to play with your best friends, family, or even people you just met. ($25, Free People)

If you ask us, party planning calls for a new notebook. This one has spaces for details, supplies needed, and a checklist, plus fun prompts if you need inspo during your planning phase. You definitely won’t forget to pick up the cake or a bag of ice if you can check it off this list. The pad has 16 weeks’ worth of sheets, so unless you’re planning 50 parties this year (impressive), it should last a while. ($35, Papier)

This roll-up mat will keep your casseroles, rice, pasta, brownies, or anything you’re whipping up this holiday season nice and warm for hours. It’s made with a 1-inch thick food-grade silicone material that’s both waterproof and super easy to clean. It also won’t crease when stored or slip when in use. Even better? It’s under $50. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

According to Julia Child, “with enough butter, anything is good,” and we couldn’t agree more. Add a little extra goodness to your dinner party with this easy edible candle kit. Not only does it come with a glass jar, silicone molds (in fun heart and flower shapes), and four hemp wicks, but it even includes spice packets like garlic, basil, and cacao to take your butter’s flavor profile to the next level. ($25, Uncommon Goods)