Catering

Buffet
- If you only have a little table, put your savoury snacks out first then bring out the puddings, and clear plates as you go along.    
- Don't put the drinks right next to the food, just in case!      
- Don't get your best china out - plastic or paper plates are fine for a buffet.  
- Make sure there's enough for several serviettes, plates and glasses or paper cups per person. 
- Cut everything you can into bite-sized or one-person portions.
- Decorate your table with rose petals and lay out dishes of biscuits and nibbles.  

Sit-down meal    
- Lay the table nicely with a cloth and decorative mats.     
- Co-ordinate your plates and dishes (borrow if you have to).      
- Let your guests choose where they want to sit, but make sure you're well-placed for access to the kitchen and you're not going to disturb everyone when you get up.   
- Choose your wines to go with what you're eating. If you're no connoisseur, ask someone in your local wine shop to help you.