Let’s face it… all aspects involved in cabinetry can be a bit confusing, custom vs. semi custom, painted vs stained, door style, wood species… where to start? We sat down with our friend and designer, Brenda Higgins of Kitchen Comfort to compile a basic list of pros and cons of both types. While most people have their preference, we thought it would be nice to share the pros and cons of each.

Cabinetry Manufactures-  These are larger scale manufacturers that create mass quantities of cabinets. The price range can be broad but generally speaking they cost less than custom cabinets because of the large quantity they produce. These cabinets can be made to custom sizes within a 1/4″. There are many different styles of doors to choose from.

Pros-
Cabinet manufactures have a machine that smaller custom cabinet shops typically do not, because the cost is very high. This machine process, applies 2 coats of catalyzed vanish and send the pieces through the baking machine, which deters oils from hands when touched. This is one plus of purchasing cabinets from a cabinet manufacture vs. a custom shop.

• Generally speaking, less expensive
• Typical lead time is 4-6 weeks

Cons-

• Limited wood species to choose from
• Generally 25 paint colors to choose from, there is an up charge to select a custom color

Custom Cabinet Shop- These are smaller, local cabinet shops, because of the smaller production, these cabinets generally cost more but are fully customizable.
Pros-

• Unlimited custom capabilities
• Generally no up charge for any paint color
• More options available

Cons-

• More expensive
• Typical lead time is 6-8 weeks

Wait… Another great option is to mix both! For example, the surround of the cabinets can be from a cabinet manufacture, but you are looking for a very special island in an exotic wood.  Have the island custom made a local cabinet shop to give your kitchen a unique, custom look!

Thanks Brenda!

• Eat with your eyes first. The table setting is going to be seen prior to the food.

• Presentation is VERY important! Especially when serving food, you need balance, symmetry and color. “This all leads back to one of the first things I learned in school,” says Gina. It’s all about the elements and principles of design .

• Centerpieces

• Adding a centerpiece to your holiday gathering does not have to be expensive, but going the extra mile to incorporate a centerpiece shows them you care. 
• A easy, inexpensive centerpiece can be made with dollar store vases and carnations. Carving out the center of the pumpkin and filling it with inexpensive flowers gives a very luxe- presentation but only costs a few dollars.
• Do not block guests eye sight with tall floral arrangements, this will make conversation less comfortable for your guests. If the guests have direct eye sight to each other, it makes conversation easier. 
• If you do have a centerpiece over 12″, remove it prior to serving the first course.
• Table setting
• Don’t be fussy
• Keep drink ware simple, place a water glass and wine glass on the table. If the guest wants additional glasses, you can get them one from the kitchen. 
• Be sure your cutlery is set up appropriately (see below)

• Dining
• Of course the food is important, I hope we didn’t give you that impression!
• Serve platted dinners, not buffet style. People love being served, even if they don’t make it known.
• Brenda says ” I always wait at least ten minutes between courses, this gives people time to chat and sip wine.”
• Serve in Courses
• 1st- Soup
• 2nd- Salad- Sprinkle salad with pomegranate seeds if possible. It adds great color and they are readily available throughout the fall and winter seasons.
• 3rd- Bakery fresh rolls with homemade herb butter. Fresh bakery rolls are so much tastier then take and bake rolls. I go to my favorite local bakery to pick up fresh rolls the day of my dinner party.
• Serve butter in individual ramekins
• Herb butter is so simple and impressive- easy recipe here!
• 4th- Entree and side dishes

Winter Squash with Spiced Butter

Winter Squash with Spiced Butter- Bon Appetit

• Winter squash recipe is simple and adds beautiful color to the plate, recipe here!
• 5th- Dessert- wait 30-45 minutes, offer coffee in the meantime

• Another important thing to remember when preparing for any dinner party, give yourself a few days to prepare. This way you won’t feel overwhelmed and don’t enjoy the company and food. 
• 3 days prior- Make menu and shop
• Day before- Prepare what you can. Brenda calls this “chopping, dicing and peeling day.”
• Day of party- Set table, cook and enjoy!