The Outdated Home Entertaining Trend That Should Stay In The Past

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Home entertaining looks a lot different these days. Just a few decades ago, homeowners would round up family and friends for formal at-home gatherings that included perfectly arranged tables and cutlery that had been passed down through generations. Fine china was perhaps the most important element of these dinner parties. The delicate and decorative pieces feature intricate designs that match the formal atmosphere of the events. They also once signified wealth and status. However, fine china has become an outdated home entertaining trend that should probably stay in the past. The problem with this delicate dinnerware is that it puts added pressure on guests who have to worry about potentially shattering or chipping these ceramics that are often incredibly valuable and sentimental.

Additionally, fine china just doesn't mesh well with modern home gatherings. These events are far more casual and often consist of guests scattered throughout a home while enjoying their meals using affordable everyday dinnerware and kitchenware — or even paper plates. Fine china isn't a good fit for those who prefer to host events that aren't so formal. Modern, sturdy dinnerware is a better option. It's totally possible to find pieces that are still sophisticated, too.

These days, homeowners rarely include vintage porcelain china with stunning patterns in their tablescapes during gatherings. The burden these fragile dishes place on guests who have to worry more about scratching or chipping their plates just isn't worth it for many. Shelly Sochr-Joyce, who owns fine china passed down by a family member, spoke to CBC about why she doesn't reach for hers often. "I like the idea of using these old dishes as everyday dishes instead of saving them for special occasions, but it's just not practical," she said.

The size and shape of certain fine china sets also make them a headache to use and clean. Sochr-Joyce opened up about this burden as well. "Even the dinner plates are huge. I don't even know if they would fit in our dishwasher. And the bowls are beautiful, but they're small and they all have really ornate handles. You couldn't stack them in the cupboards to store them, you'd need a huge china cabinet." To avoid all of these problems during an at-home gathering, consider opting for something like the Pokini Stoneware Dinnerware Sets. The rich-colored stone aligns far better with modern trends. More importantly, it's thick and durable. This makes the set perfect for more laid-back events. If you prefer something a little more toned down, TheTerra Ceramic Dinnerware Set is also a great pick. Both options would work well with any fun tablescape idea you have in mind.