Sweet fragrances and sunrise colors fill this vase with bright promise for the New Year. Kumquats and limes evoke a tropical getaway, as do lush blossoms of phalaenopsis orchids (available at many supermarkets). The perfumes of paperwhite narcissus and jasmine are a surefire pick-me-up. As you make the arrangement, insert the sturdy citrus branches before adding the delicate flower stems. For a final touch, let some jasmine trail down the side.

As if being the perfect portable snack weren't enough, one of Georgia's most famous exports reveals a little-known talent at picnic time: Peanuts can cushion delicate items such as peaches (speaking of Georgia), sandwiches, and glass bottles (or Champagne flutes, if you're getting fancy). And when their work is done, the peanuts make a tasty addition to the meal.

Picnic basket, $16, chelseamarketbaskets.com. Parma linen kitchen towel, $22, libecohomestores.com.

Keep bugs, leaves, and other unwelcome guests from joining you for drinks by topping glasses with these jaunty little hats (otherwise known as baking cups). Cut a small X into the center of each liner, poke a straw through the hole, and enjoy your beverage worry- (and pest-) free.

Paper cups, fancyflours.com.

Here's a fresh idea for the season's abundant Forelles and Anjous: Use them to make a friendly, fragrant greeting.

Line up seven pears (in the same color or a mix) on a mantel. Then, with a fine-tipped washable marker, write letters on the front of each pear. Press whole cloves into the flesh along the lines; using a pushpin or a tack first can ease their entry. Make the letters no earlier than the day your guests arrive -- the sweet and spicy aroma will be as welcoming as the message itself.

Update guests about happenings (the couple's arrival at the reception, cake-cutting, first dance) by asking young guests to raise descriptive paper flags at the right time. Vest, shirt, bow tie, and shorts, Crewcuts by J.Crew.

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