"For example, cinnamon- or ginger-scented candles would be ideal for this Indian menu, and will fill the room with seductive fragrance."

"I recommend purchasing candles crafted from essential oils, since these have a purer, cleaner smell than candles laden with artificial perfumes."

"For our Indian menu, we presented Sula, an Indian shiraz high in tannins, since it is a perfect match for the creamy flavors of the meal."

"Even though we're not trying to hide the fact that you didn't cook the meal, we don't need to remind anyone of it."

"And if you even dream of serving the meal in the takeout containers, I will come to your house and beat you with a frying pan."

"For rice dishes, press the rice into a small ramekin or bowl, then turn it upside down over the plate to unmold it. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs."

"In that case, put your array of appetizers and entrées in nice serving bowls and present them on the table (remember what I said about the containers ? I mean it)."

"Put a little thought (and a few bucks) into setting the scene. Since we ordered Indian food, we used copper pillar candlesticks, etched glass goblets and a silver-lidded glass cachepot for ambience. Plates are mix and match in ceramic, wood and jewel-toned plastic."

"The first and most important part of setting the tone
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