Pretty and Polished Serveware Pieces

Time Several Hours

Budget $ $$$

Skill Level

WORDS BY Gillian Grefe

Fill 1Created with Sketch.

Published on September 16, 2019

Fall is a time of welcome transitions —leaves shift from green to gold to burgundy, coffees shift from iced to hot, and we trade in tees and sneakers for sumptuous sweaters and boots. The fall season just feels a little bit fancier, a bit more tactile and special. But it’s hard to uphold autumnal aesthetic while hosting the season’s most casual event: a tailgate.

Every weekend in fall, diehard football fans and bandwagoners alike come together for college games on Saturdays, professional games on Sundays, and even the occasional Monday, Thursday, and Friday night games. So, how can you elevate gatherings that hinge on Bud Light and hotdogs?

Enter these upscale serveware pieces that will even make serving wings and nachos classy. They’re game-changers year-round, too: use them in spring for outdoor picnics, in summer for barbecues, and during the holidays for festive yet casual occasions all winter long.

  • A faux bois table runner: This runner recalls a wooden picnic table, albeit much more stylishly. Its rich texture and ribbons of gold make any table instantly chic. There’s also a cool-toned version in silvery gray that recalls an Aspen tree.
  • A simple decanter: Pour your liquor of choice into this cute decanter. Or, embrace the season with a woodsier option.
  • Buffalo check napkins: In 100% cotton, these napkins are hardy, machine washable, and so much chicer than paper towels.
  • Paper napkin holder: Buffalo checks are one thing, but buffalo wings are another. Keep fingers (and cotton napkins) clean by stashing paper napkins in this simple yet striking napkin holder.
  • Portable drinking glasses: Upgrade red Solo cups for these simple glass vessels, which come in a convenient carrying case—get from the kitchen to the living room without so much as a drop spilled.
  • A galvanized party bucket: Keep beers cold and stylishly corralled in this oversized bucket with rustic wooden handles.
  • Cute trivets: Straight-out-of-the-oven artichoke dip calls for a trivet to protect your table. This one features a range of tones and textures, while this one has a graphic-meets-glamorous vibe.
  • A sculptural, stoneware serving bowl: Tostitos never looked so good. These stoneware dip bowls are ideal for condiments.
  • Autumnal accents: Acknowledge the season with flourishes like these pretty floral bowls — they’re meant for dips, but would also be great for serving appetizers or desserts. Or, opt for a fall-friendly palette with these tile-inspired dip bowls in red.

For even more pretty, functional serveware pieces, browse a huge selection of Dining & Entertaining products on the Havenly shop. If your kitchen, dining, or living spaces need a makeover to better host tailgates and other get-togethers, get started with our style quiz today.

Words by Sara Watson