1. CONVERSATION PIECE
Is science or art more essential to humanity? We couldn’t tell you. But it does seem worth talking over. Help your host keep conversation flowing with these place cards from TableTopics. We promise: Gums will flap.
Cost: $5.50 for pack of 30; tabletopics.com
2. FOR THE RECORD
The host’s lament: They never get to mingle. With all the eggs to devil, some barely remember who came. Give your hard-working host a sign-in book, like this linen note pad, where guests can record their wit and witticisms for later review.
Cost: $8, huset-shop.com
3. WEAKER VESSEL? NOT HERE
A vase made of paper seems as functional as a wooden light bulb. But then, those Scandinavians can design anything. Danish designer Frank Kerdil’s paper vase is not only waterproof but also reusable. And for the price, you’ll have cash left to buy the bouquet.
Cost: $23.50 for box of four; abitareshop.com
4. AMUSE BOUCHE
We thought chocolate was perfect, but now this: Bacon. Vosges Haute-chocolat’s set of mini exotic chocolate bars includes its famed bacon bar, featuring that crispy meat product enveloped in chocolate. Talk about a conversation starter.
Cost: $25. 951 W. Armitage Ave., 773-296-9866, 520 N. Michigan Ave., 312-644-9450. vosgeschocolate.com
5. COAST IS CLEAR
When the wine starts spilling, your host will appreciate these coasters by Modern-Twist, which also can be personalized. Ball-point pen wipes clean, so doodle freely.
Cost: $21 for set of four; Virtu, 2034 N. Damen Ave., 773-235-3790, virtuchicago.com
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