The Ultimate Party Setup Guide for Any Occasion

green apple + honeydew melon + green grape + kiwi

banana + pineapple + mango + cantaloupe

raspberry + red grape + blueberry

watermelon + strawberry + red apple

Wine and cheese pairings are the perfect fare for cocktail parties. Follow our guide to bring out the best flavor profiles.

A mild cheddar won't outshine a vibrant, full-bodied merlot.

Refreshing grassy and tropical flavors of sauvignon blancs provide a delicious counterbalance to goat cheese's rich tangy flavor and smooth consistency.

Spicy zinfandels pair well with tangy, creamy feta.

Sweeter rieslings will cut through gorgonzola's sharpness.

Crisp, effervescent Champagne balances brie's rich, creamy qualities.

Finish off the plater with a variety of combinations pictured here.

A fully-stocked bar cart is a must-have no matter what type of party you're throwing. Start with a blank slate, and follow our guide to make sure guests can drink practically any cocktail they desire.

Specialty tools like these make bartending a breeze.

These are the basics that any cocktail connoisseur should have on hand.

Place citrus fruits in a pretty wooden bowl for aesthetic appeal.

Feel free to swap these out for other mixers that you might use more regularly. For instance, grapefruit juice and elderflower cordial make great additions to tequila and Champagne, respectively.

Don't forget the most important part: liqours! Keep these essentials stocked.

Buffets shouldn't be stuffy or overdesigned. Here, simplicity is best.

For weddings, anniversary celebrations, rehersal dinners and other formal affairs, place settings are very important. Done properly, settings indicate the course and which piece of dinnerware to use.