Head to the local party supply store to pick up all your Mardi Gras party needs! Purple, green, and gold streamers, masks, and beads are a must! Instead of using traditional servingware, opt for paper plates and paper napkins, which are easy to clean up and won't break. Set up the food on a large table in the kitchen. Place the sandwich on a sandwich platter, like this rectangular one ($50), and the shrimp remoulade in a little silver bowl (this one ($7) is perfect). Use a pitcher to pour the soup into tall shot glasses — these tall skinny ones ($2.50) are ideal. Don't forget hurricane glasses for the cocktail! Click on the images above to shop the look.
When planning an act of volunteering like a 
When done properly, a table runner and tablecloth can both be used to create a harmonious and gorgeous table setting. Think of it like you would clothing: if one is patterned and textured, the other should be simple and plain. Here, a rich brown-velvet runner is placed on top of an elegant white cloth. Golden beaded chargers serve as accents and white serving ware — plates and bowls — let 
When creating a tablescape for an 
You don't need to go all out with crazy decorations for a 
Use the casual elegance of the French countryside as the inspiration for a 
