I've got it down to one figleaf. I keep my cutlery divided into casual use and festive occasions, and you can probably guess that I keep the festive one put aside. So that it's handy but I don't pick it up unnecessarily when I happen to walk by. If I'm surprised by a visitor, I reach for the secret place and know that the cutlery will be beautifully polished and ready immediately.
It's ideal to have a set of at least 10 pieces of basic cutlery, and over time, get different gadgets like serving spoons and forks, ladles, forks and fish knives, or even long spoons to stir your lemonade with, for example. And if you like to bake, a cake scoop is also a must. I chose the cutlery from the Beta set, which I find timeless, simple yet suitable for any occasion and beautifully shiny. When choosing cutlery it's up to your taste, but what you need to look out for is quality and that's no problem with the Berndorf brand.
In addition to cutlery, it is important to have a larger number of the same bowls, plates and glasses. They don't all have to be the same, it's enough if they are from the same series or at least similar in style. This way they can be easily combined and you will look like you own a catering company. You can put anything from chocolate mousse and tiramisu to cold soups or vegetables for hummus in the glass jars, and different dips, dressings or even fruit in the bowls. Dessert plates can be neatly stacked so that they're handy and easy for guests to reach for. It is important that the food and serving complement each other and not the other way around.
As with everything, there is beauty in simplicity. Simple china, timeless cutlery and glassware will make your goodies stand out and every visitor will leave delighted.
