Halloween has come and gone, we've made it through another big election, and Thanksgiving is now just weeks away. Now is a good time to begin planning what you'll be serving, who you'll be entertaining, and evaluating your kitchenware and tableware situation.

A lot of hosts and hostesses like to plan a big, fancy dinner - preparing their table with the best they own, such as quality linens, their best dinnerware, silver and crystal glassware. Many others enjoy a more effortless dinner, with their guests bringing their favorite potluck dishes and the table set with casual dinnerware and simple holiday touches. Whatever your personal preference, some basic table setting guidelines will help make your holiday dinner table look wonderfully complete.

When it comes to setting the table, there are a lot of flexible ways to complete the perfect setting. Are you serving white and red wines? Some will say you should have both glasses available for each guest, but many others suggest it's hardly necessary, especially if space is tight. It's also a good idea to include a large water glass at each setting too. The wineglass should be placed above the knives, with the water glass closer to the place setting center.

The plate marks the center of each place setting, with each setting ideally allocated 25-30 inches of space. Place the knives and spoons to the right of the plate, with the sharp edge turned in toward the plate, forks on the left. All silverware should be set about 1/2 inch from the table's edge. Using a bread plate? Place that on the left of the fork.

While tradition seems to recommend seating your guests in a "boy-girl-boy-girl" style, you'll find this rule is not always easy to follow. You can keep it in mind for the fun of it, especially if you're creating place cards or unique decorations at each setting - it will surely liven up the dinner party atmosphere.

Holiday gatherings can be a lot of fun if you take care of the small stuff early. Count up the number of guests and write up the holiday menu early so you can stock up on ingredients ahead of time. Always allow for a few extra people just in case - if nothing else you'll have some great leftovers to enjoy. Now is also a good time now to shine up your glasses and silverware. You might want to study the condition of your dishes and serveware to make sure you have enough to complete your table without ending up with a hodgepodge of dinnerware on the big day!