Just Desserts: The Best Way to End a Meal

It's literally the sweetest part of any meal: dessert. It's also, we think, the best part of any dinner party: All your work is done, the main course was officially a hit, and now it's time to linger over coffee, sweets and great company. So why not keep the party going 'til the last crumb? Here's how:

Set out a spread. Macarons, cookies, pie, fresh fruit: An assortment of sweets will mean something for everyone, and small bites will encourage guests to help themselves to mini seconds (and thirds). Make them look extra fetching with serveware in shiny metallics and bold colors.

Serve up some fun. Cheeky plates will give guests another thing to talk about. Mixing and matching dinner, salad and dessert plates will keep a sit-down dinner from getting too formal.

Keep guests happy. Setting the table with mugs and prepping coffee before dinner means no one needs to rush away from the table. Just sneak away to turn the coffee pot on and you're all set!

Let the games begin. We love ending the night with some friendly competition over our coffee and cake. Get out a grown-up board game or a DIY trivia contest and let guests linger till the wee hours.

Get everything you need for a sweet party at Target!