Most people feel they must use "the good china" for company. But Sherry Akbar, a 31-year-old jewelry designer in New York City, and her husband, Nader Paksima, have the confidence to serve guests on the white dishes they use every day. "I have a set of formal china that my mother made me register for, but I've never used it," she says. "I always prefer a simple table."

The Centerpiece

The traditional way to light a dining table is with tapers or votives. But chunky pillar candles are more dramatic — just place them on those bread plates you never use.

The Place Cards

"Even for small gatherings, place cards create a sense of occasion," says Sherry. These placeholders double as party favors. Jars of holiday spices — nutmeg, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon — evoke the colors and smells of the season. Wrap each with ribbon and secure it with a sticker on which the guest's name is written.

The China and the Flatware

White dishes illuminate the chocolate brown table and walls. The stainless-steel flatware is sturdy enough for regular use but smart enough for a dinner party.

The Linens

"I usually shy away from color, but a runner and napkins are an easy way to experiment," says Sherry, who normally uses twig place mats. Napkins in complementary colors keep the settings from becoming monotonous.

The Glassware

Fancy wineglasses and water goblets would be as out of place here as high heels at a yoga class. Streamlined tumblers are a fine way to serve table wines and large enough (14 ounces) to be water glasses.