What are the most needed serving pieces if I afford to buy a complete set?

A complete serving set includes various pieces to ensure you have everything you need when serving food and beverages to guests. Here's a list of the most needed serving pieces:

1. Serving Trays:

- Large Serving Tray: For carrying multiple dishes, drinks, or items at once.

- Small Serving Tray: For serving individual portions of appetizers or snacks.

2. Platters:

- Large Platter: For serving main dishes, such as roasted meats or fish, or displaying a variety of finger foods.

- Medium Platter: For serving side dishes, salads, or cheese and crackers.

- Small Platter: For serving desserts or individual portions of appetizers.

3. Serving Bowls:

- Large Serving Bowl: For serving soups, salads, pasta, or large portions of food.

- Medium Serving Bowl: For serving side dishes, fruits, or vegetable salads.

- Small Serving Bowl: For serving dips, sauces, condiments, or individual portions of sides.

4. Pitchers:

- Water Pitcher: For serving cold water or other beverages.

- Beverage Pitcher: For serving lemonade, iced tea, sangria, or other homemade drinks.

5. Creamer and Sugar Set:

- Creamer: For serving cream or half-and-half with coffee or tea.

- Sugar Bowl: For serving granulated or cube sugar.

6. Gravy Boat:

- With Ladle: For serving gravy, meat juices, or sauces with roasted meats.

7. Salt and Pepper Shakers:

- Set of Two: Provide seasonings for guests at the table.

8. Butter Dish:

- With Lid: For serving butter at room temperature.

9. Napkin Rings:

- Set of Four or More: For holding cloth napkins in place at each setting.

10. Cake Stand:

- For displaying and serving cakes, pies, or other desserts.

11. Ice Bucket:

- With Tongs: For keeping ice cubes chilled and providing tongs to serve.

12. Serving Spoons and Forks:

- Set of Serving Spoons and Forks: For serving dishes from serving bowls or platters.

13. Salad Servers:

- Salad Fork and Salad Spoon: For tossing and serving salads.

14. Pasta Server:

- Slotted Spoon and Fork: For serving pasta dishes.

15. Pie Server:

- For slicing and serving pies or cakes.

16. Meat Carving Set:

- Carving Knife and Fork: For slicing roasted meats elegantly.

17. Cheese Board and Knife Set:

- Board with Cheese Knives: For presenting and serving various types of cheese.

Remember that the specific serving pieces you need may vary based on your personal preferences and the types of dishes you serve. You don't necessarily need to purchase every item on this list if you don't think you'll use it frequently.