Food Trays
I like taking food and fresh picked flowers to friends when I visit – I like putting in the thought and time to share something that shows my appreciation! I wouldn’t think of showing up to someone’s house empty handed – I guess it’s just the way my mother raised me. I don’t, however, like having to deal with the back and forth of dishes or vases. So, I buy vases at the Dollar Tree and leave them. And I always have my eyes peeled for serving trays on clearance…mostly after the holidays. I search for trays that have either plan edges or ones that can be adapted for any occassion. I’ve found trays for as little as a dollar, and all the way down to $.25! I stock up on them whenever I see them!
Of course, taking a Christmas platter to someone’s house in mid-July just doesn’t work. So here’s my solution: scrapbook paper. It works like a charm!

Place in the bottom of the tray and Voila! (notice that it doesn't have to be a perfect fit, just push it on in and smooth out the edges)

When using platter for "juicy" things like watermelon or berries, top the scrapbook paper with a layer of wax paper also cut to fit the base of the platter...it'll keep things from soaking through, but still shows off the paper
the berry shot has awesome lighting!