Ok, I am in serch of a company that sells hard to find, unique and multi use props for food service, buffets, and or station decor. I have all of the usual stuff, but I am wanting to find a few quailty items to help spruce things up a little. If anyone knows of a web site or a supplier, please let me know. Thaks Rick...

By debord on Monday, July 09, 2001 - 03:05 pm: Edit

Well this isn't totally what your asking for but......we have an amazing flea market in my area (it's gotten national write-ups it's called "Kane County flea market") where you can find some really terrific serving pieces from trays and baskets to sterling silver serving pieces to pottery fish platters, etc... They sell antiques, new items and just crazy stuff too.

Also "antique" stores have neat items but you have to look at the junky kind of stores otherwise they get very pricey for the same kind of stuff.

You can really find some creative ideas for pennys compared to buying out of food service books.

I've collected white serving pieces, pottery pieces, black glass, black laquer, colbalt pieces and silver serving pieces through out the years I was catering. Abit like opening one of Marthas books (actually that's were we got the idea to get away from using all silver) instead of using all silver platters or stainless.

Nice baskets (stylish ones) can really add to a look to. I also wire flowers to baskets often to jazz them up.

By Matt (Matt) on Monday, July 09, 2001 - 03:35 pm: Edit

I'm not sure if this site sells their products but we have rented from them and they are awesome. You can find them at http://www.themeprops.com. Hope this helps.

By Peachcreek (Peachcreek) on Monday, July 09, 2001 - 04:29 pm: Edit

Thrift stores, junk stores, garage sales, we do them all. My restaurant has been using thrift store dishes since we started 4 years ago. Nothing matches, people love it. We find all sorts of cool serviceware and "Object de' Art". We have a local sculptor who is doing an installation out of broken chairs...really cool. We find some stuff that is too good to be used for regular service and keep that for caterings. The building that the restaurant is in is near several antique stores. I've actually consigned a few things and sold them. My best find? A collection of 165 pieces of vintage green Frankoma dinnerware for $150. Includes most of the serviceware. Oh, and my 14 copper pots for $75. Whats hot? I call it "Retroware". 50s and 60s. Anything futuristic, space or nuclear oriented. Baby-boomer stuff. Good luck.

By Chefmanny (Chefmanny) on Monday, July 09, 2001 - 07:27 pm: Edit

It depends on the theme, if you need nautical go to nautical shops....etc. I t all depends on what you want. You can find a lot of stuff at garage sales.