Any experienced host with a sweet tooth will agree that owning a cake stand is a must for entertaining. As much as I love a slice of moist and perfectly iced cake (like our Ultimate Chocolate Cake!) I love to treat my guests to an array of bite-size treats for those times when I'm hosting a special dinner. Macarons, madeleines, truffles or individual-sized pies and tarts are amongst my favourite ways to end a special-occasion meal. You can make these in advance and opt for a simpler main so you leave plenty of room for dessert. For those times, a tiered cake stand like this one is the perfect vehicle to showcase your selection.

And when it's not in use on your dining table, this beautiful piece will look pretty adorned with smaller fresh fruit on your countertop. Slate and Wood 3-Tier Dessert Tray from West Elm