Cathy Riva, Event Planner, Riva Events

Have fun with desserts: "Skip individual desserts and opt instead for a plate of sweets and savories on the table at the end of the night.

Another way to serve nicely but hold the line on costs is to "create a dessert bar where folks can choose from a few different options," says Riva.

Delicious homemade or store-bought delights are both fine, she emphasizes. "These sweets can be on a plate in the center of your table or on a three-tiered tray."

Riva's other suggestions for some great treats for the end of the meal:

• Mini brownie bites
• Chocolate covered pretzels
• Cheese cake squares
• Cream puffs
• Apple pie slices
• Mallomars
• Raspberry tarts

Yet another fun approach: "Create a 'Candy Bar' featuring your own assorted chocolate and other candy favorites," she suggests.

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