When the whole gang shows to watch the big game on TV, where are you going to put the snacks? You might set up some card tables, or lay the vittles out on a dining table in a separate room. You could fill up all your end tables, coffee tables and portable trays.

Here’s a solution you might not have thought off: the sofa table! These handy units often stand demurely behind the sofa and play a background role. But they’re more than ready to step forward into a starring capacity on game day or movie night! Here are a few ideas on what sofa tables can do to liven up your next TV viewing extravaganza.

About Sofa Tables

Sofa tables get their name because they’re usually placed behind a sofa. They're tall, thin and long. They should be level with the top of the couch and not extend beyond the edges. That is, whenever they’re situated behind a sofa. However, they don’t have be located there!

As a behind sofa table, they can be between the couch and the wall, or they can be exposed to the room in an open setting. But they don’t have to anywhere near a sofa; they can also stand alone. In that case, they might act as room dividers or create a transition between different areas. If there’s dead space in a room, a sofa table can provide the accent that brings that space to life.

In back of a sofa, they often hold lamps and decor. When they’re against the wall, they create some space behind the couch for airflow from vents and to neatly hide electric cords and power strips.

Some sofa tables have only a top surface, but a sofa table with storage has shelves and possibly even drawers underneath. You can make shelves even more useful by deploying a few baskets on the lower shelving. In sofa tables without shelves, you might pull some stools up for impromptu seating. You can also buy a sofa table with stools included.

Styles vary. Some are minimalist glass and metal, and others either plain or ornate wood. Most are rectangular, but a few feature a modernistic curve on one of the long edges. Some are rustic and others contemporary. Whatever the ambiance of your room, there’s a sofa table that fits right in! When they’re used to separate a couch from a wall, the appearance of the tabletop is most important. But those that will be open to everyone’s view might have eye-catching features such as attractive drawer pulls and tapered legs.

Sofa Tables on Game Day

At an exuberant party, some people sit and others stand, and a sofa table is an ideal height for grazing. You can lay out food and drinks for folks to pick up as they walk by. You might choose to keep the tabletop mostly clear so people can set their goodies down as they stand and converse. Or you could tuck a few stools underneath for guests to pull out as they’re needed.

What might you lay out on your sensational sofa tables? Here are some suggestions:

Tempting Trays and Bountiful Boards

Charcuterie boards are traditionally used for cured meats, but when your favorite crowd gathers, you can stretch that tradition. It’s always been common to mix in a few cheeses, crackers and olives with the meats, but why stop there? Any kind of finger food that will please your visitors is “on the table.” Mix it up with savory and sweet choices, fruits, desserts and maybe even a kid-friendly tray for the young fans.

There are beautiful trays and boards that invite you to make your display a work of art. Use an ottoman tray with edges or a flat board on metal or wooden feet.

Popcorn Presentation

Who doesn’t like popcorn? Invite everyone to step up and help themselves from a big bowlful with smaller bowls and napkins. Salted and buttered popcorn are tasty, but they’re not the only option! For a spin on an old favorite, dust your corn with cheese, honey or even chocolate.

Chipping and Dipping Station

Parties and dips go together like baseball and hot dogs! You’ll never go wrong setting out a few bowls of chips and an assortment of delectables to dunk them in. You can use classics such as salsa and cheese ‘n’ spinach, or you might liven things up with hummus, guacamole, creamy pesto or some zippy jalapeno dip for the adventurous souls.

Beverage Central

A punchbowl is always a hit, but there’s more than one way to make your drink station a gathering spot! For example, an assortment of carafes can hold lemonade, tea, fruit juice and soda pop as easily as it can wine. Large dispensers of water with fruit floating inside offer an intriguing taste without the calories. And, of course, there’s always the mixology inventory for adult beverages. Are you entertaining on a chilly day? Consider a warm and welcoming hot chocolate bar with all the sweet fixings.

For your next festive gathering, give some consideration to what sofa tables can do, not only at party time but also as full-time furnishings. While you’re at it, add a few boards, trays and bowls for laying out the good times at your upcoming event!