Conversation starters can be found in the small details, and we’ve found a few you might like have around for your next party.

Table Talk

Set out a Table Topics cube of questions and let your guests draw out deep, meaningful answers from each other. After the Original version took off, now there are Bookclub, Couples, Family, Girls Night Out, Spirit, and Teen editions. Here's one to start with: "If you could have any view from your back porch, what would it be?" $24 at LoftParty.com

Wine Tasting Hints

Get a pad of 48 coasters with 12 different wine quotes to help your guests who are tongue-tied about describing their wine.  Fun quotes like "Plummy With Strong Thrusting Overtones" or "Somewhat Green But Coming Along Nicely" are bound to get something started. $10 at Target

Chalkboard Placemats

Not just for kids -- if your adult guests have an artistic bent to them, set your table up with some chalk and chalkboard placemats, and watch what develops. A new invention, song lyrics, or maybe even a layout for your kitchen remodel. $30 for 4 at Uncommon Goods

Human Bingo

Finally, one of the more clever party mixers I've heard of recently is Human Bingo. Fill out a 5x5 grid with tidbits of background information from your guests –- like "just returned from hiking the Inca trail,"  "was a cheerleader in high school," "have traveled to all 7 continents." Then, have your guests mingle and find out which tidbit belongs to the person and get their autograph in the box. First, guest to get five in a row wins!