If you’re looking to host more but don’t believe you have all of the entertaining essentials you need on hand, don’t fret. The next time you go thrift or vintage shopping, you can scoop up so many incredible hosting basics that will add charm to your home without the steep price tag (seriously, what could be better than that?).
Not sure what to look for specifically? We asked two interior designers, who are also avid hosts, to highlight their top favorite hosting items to shop for secondhand—all of which are equal parts pretty and practical.
Appetizer Plates
While it can be challenging to source a full set of dinner plates the thrift store, smaller plates, such as those meant for appetizers, are easier to find—and the best part is that they certainly don’t need to match, explains Meghan Jay, who likes to pick these up when shopping secondhand.
“Mixing colors, patterns, and eras makes everything feel more personal and festive,” says the founder of Meghan Jay Design.
Plus, she points out, since her set isn’t all one pattern, it’s easy to expand upon her appetizer plate collection over time whenever she spots pieces that call her name.
Quirky Tabletop Accents
Make like Jay and take your tablescape to the next level by weaving in interesting tabletop accents with plenty of personality.
While traveling in Paris, Jay was thrilled to source a set of dachshund knife rests at the flea market.
“They always spark conversation and, surprisingly, are wonderfully practical,” she says. Other types of pieces in this category that she enjoys scooping up include vintage salt cellars.
“They have a sculptural quality, and the most charming versions always seem to surface in secondhand shops,” the designer says. In addition to the above, look for cute butter dishes, napkin rings, and the like.
Candlesticks
Jay can’t resist a good candlestick while thrifting and has amassed a collection of different styles over the years.
“Thrifting them lets you play with different heights, silhouettes, materials, and all those gorgeous levels of patina you simply can’t buy new,” she says.
Jay says that you shouldn’t worry about sticking to one metal finish or color when styling these; it’s more than okay to create a grouping using a number of different candlestick styles.
Of course, when you’re not hosting in the dining room, your candlestick collection will also look beautiful displayed on the living room mantel.
Silver Pitchers
Michelle Gage, the founder of Michelle Gage Interiors, has a penchant for collecting vintage silver, but she is especially drawn to vintage silver pitchers, which she has come across “in really unique shapes.”
By no means do you have to use them for their traditional purpose, either, she says. The designer will often use hers to hold a bouquet of flowers,
Utensils
Add some extra character to your place settings by opting for vintage silverware instead of brand new utensils, Gage says, noting that she finds such pieces to be far more character-filled than contemporary offerings.
Salt and Pepper Shakers
Rather than grabbing your plastic salt and pepper bottles from the pantry and placing them on your table top, go the extra mile and set out chic salt and pepper shakers that will elevate your entertaining setup.
By no means do you need to pay a pretty penny for these, though. Gage will often buy hers vintage and loves how much flair they add to her tabletop.
“Something small but striking can really help to set the vibe,” she says.