Sometimes, a dinner party has to be large when it's for an event, such as a family gathering back home or a holiday, but if you're throwing one for fun, keep it small.Ina Garten's preferred number ...

This means you'll pay just over $2 for each gorgeous dinner plate, salad plate, and bowl in the 12-piece set. Lehaha Rustic Melamine Dinnerware Set, $25 (was $50) at Amazon.