Tabletop dinnerware, drinkware and serving accessories are showing a revival because the renewed interest in home and family is reflected in increased interest in family dinners and entertainment at home, especially on such occasions as Christmas. Credit home entertaining, too, for the growth in barware sales, especially martini glasses and oversized wine glasses. Holiday tabletop ware makes excellent gifts and some consumers regard this as a mine for collectible items. The collectible opportunity is one that companies have noted. Many introduce new pieces each year to extend tabletop services.
Variety is amplified by an increasing number of new companies bringing fresh approaches to products.
The Asian influence on tabletop ware is particularly notable in square and rectangular shapes or in the use of calligraphy. Teapots have become a collectible item too, giving them possibilities as gifts beyond their function. Tea kettles by such designers as Michael Graves are also bringing gift dollars to stores such as Target. The garden is still a national passion, partly as a hobby and partly in respect to the environment. The garden has become an outdoor room, furnished with seating and accessories.