We do a lot of casual entertaining -(think pool parties and bbq's) . I find tons of inexpensive décor right here on wayfair.com-(4th July, Veterans's Day,birthdays and just random weekends when the triple digit Texas heat is unbearable-and a cold beverage to float around in the pool with is mandatory)
My lingering pet peeve has been how blah paper plates and plastic utensils look-so I stocked up on colorful melamine 
dishes-(plates,bowls and a few serving platters) and to replace the cheesy plastic forks (and not use the "good" silverware) ordered this terrific 40 piece flatware set for 8-which included serving pieces as well.
This is a basic set,simple in design-it's sturdier than  thought it would be as well.Has a nice shiny finish that looks a thousand times better than plastic. And if a piece disappears -it's not a big deal. I do think using "real" utensils and plates totally elevates any gathering.