Books

Decorate a table geared to today's lifestyles, when takeout in front of the fireplace counts as having friends over for dinner and a potluck picnic is far more common than a five-course meal. Start with a basics section to review the standard tableware components to know which fork goes where. Then come dozens of clever, creative ideas for making tables inviting places to gather. Whether it's a full-blown setting, a fresh-as-Spring table, a Christmas tea, or just innovative centerpieces, you'll find them here without breaking your budget. Bonus: tips and sidebars on everything from hosting a wine tasting to throwing a house-renovation party (just put the beer in the wheelbarrow). "...a guide for clever, creative and very do-able table-setting ideas."--Publishers Weekly.