With the holiday season suddenly upon us, it's time to think about stocking up on entertaining essentials. In the long run, it's more economical to buy than rent if you entertain frequently; we've sourced tabletop items that are versatile, durable, and readily available (in case you need overnight shipping).

GLASSWARE

Above: The All-Purpose Wine Glasses from Sur La Table can be used for both red and white wines; $39.99 for a set of 12.

Above: Crate & Barrel's Party Goblets are $21.95 for a set of 12.

Above: For large parties, Ikea's Svalka White WIne Glasses are good to have on hand in multiples; $4.99 for a set of six. N.B.: They are not the most durable, but for the price they can't be beat.

Above: If you prefer the stemless variety, consider Ikea's 365+ Ivrig Wine Glasses: $3.99 each. For more ideas on affordable glassware, see 10 Easy Pieces: Everyday Wine Glasses and 10 Easy Pieces: Basic Drinking Glasses.

DISHWARE

Above: A set of four Coupe Porcelain Dinner Plates is $12.95 at Crate & Barrel.

Above: The Caterer's 12-Piece Dinnerware Set includes a dozen dinner plates; $49 from Pottery Barn. A Caterer's Set of 12 Salad Plates and Caterer's Set of 12 Bowls are also available for $39.

Above: Sold by the case, White Anfora Rolled-Edge China Plates are made of dishwasher-safe vitrified china; $41.94 per dozen at Cooking. See 10 Easy Pieces: Basic White Dinnerware for more ideas.

FLATWARE

Above: Fishs Eddy sells Open Stock Flatware by the piece, starting at $1.99 for a salad fork.

Above: Source silverplate flatware in mismatched sets from flea markets: the Bygones Flatware Bundles (includes 10 pieces; choose from fork, knife, or spoon sets) are $68 at Bhldn.

Above: CB2 offers stainless steel Party Forks ($9.95), Party Knives ($10.95), and Party Spoons ($9.95) in sets of six. See more of our flatware favorites: 10 Easy Pieces: Everyday Stainless Steel Flatware.

TABLE LINENS

Above: A set of 12 cotton Hotel Dinner Napkins is $49 at Williams-Sonoma.

Above: Williams-Sonoma's Hotel Cocktail Napkins are $32 per dozen.

Above: At 99 cents each, Ikea's Tekla Dishtowels make affordable (and charmingly rustic) napkins.

Above: Stock up on basic Chilewich 100-Percent Linen Napkins, currently on sale for $6.76 each (regularly $13) at Sur La Table.