Holdaplate: The Perfect Cocktail Plate for Effortless Entertaining

A Simple Solution to the Balancing Act Conundrum

The Holdaplate is a simple solution to an age-old and universal problem: that awkward balancing act performed exclusively during a cocktail party, when we must hold a plate of food and a glass, one in each hand, while attempting to shake someone's hand or eat. A subtle, almost whimsical contour in the 6-inch plate's periphery allows for a glass of any size to easily nestle alongside, held in place by the user's index finger and supported effortlessly by the remaining fingers below.

Utilizing Rhinoceros Software, the Holdaplate went through 40 nylon 3D printed iterations before reaching its final design. The stackability, thickness, and simplicity of the design allow for multi-material manufacturability. The first production run utilized 1mm-thick dishwashable reusable recyclable injection molded Polypropylene, chosen for its durability and demand. Other materials such as Melamine, porcelain, compostable molded-fiber-bagasse, and bamboo are also being considered for future production.

The standard size of the Holdaplate is 152mm x 127mm x 19mm (LxWxH), with an alternative size of 165mm x 140mm x 19mm available. The plate weighs 0.68oz when made from 1mm thick Polypropylene and 2.2oz when made from 1.7mm thick Melamine. The packaging options include a polybag with a cardboard header card for the Polypropylene version and a 152mm square box with a label for the Melamine version.

The Holdaplate is not only functional but also elegant, making it suitable for the most formal of gatherings. Its design allows for easy use, versatility with any glassware type, and eliminates the need for precarious hanging or balancing of cups on the plate. The user retains their cup in-hand, creating a fluid and natural hand motion to nestle the plate alongside. The majority of the plate weight is supported by the fingers underneath, enhancing aesthetics by compacting the Lip-Groove area.

Research and development for the Holdaplate was completed in June 2012, in Philadelphia and San Francisco, USA. The first manufactured samples were received and mailed out on January 1, 2013, and the eCommerce website went live on March 15, 2013.

The Holdaplate has received recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware, and Cookware Design category in 2013. This prestigious award is bestowed upon outstanding designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements.