Tips for setting a table:
- Add beauty and warmth to a tablescape with a linen cloth, candles, and a stunning centerpiece. Always select a centerpiece that will not obstruct view or hinder conversation.
- Just as in home decor, adding different colors and textures can add visual interest to your tablescape. For instance, a wood table and linen runner would pair nicely with candles, glass, greenery, and pewter or gold goblets and chargers.
- Remember to allow enough elbow room for guests so they are not overcrowded.
- Do not forget to set the tone for the evening with music that will help create the mood you desire.
If you have ever wondered how to set a proper place setting then you may find these tips helpful:
- Balance place settings by laying flatware, plates and glasses the same distance apart.
- If serving a formal dinner, you can lay a napkin on a charger (decorative service plate) to accent and balance a place setting without a plate. The charger usually remains until the main entrée is served.
- Place forks to the left of a plate and knives and spoons to the right. A cocktail fork is the only fork set to the right.
- Utensils are set in the order they will be used; place the first needed utensils furthest from the plate. It is not necessary to set out utensils that will not be used. Remove used utensils after each course.
- Place a water glass directly above the knife. Wine glasses and other glassware should be set to the right of the water glass, descending downward from largest to smallest.
- A bread and butter plate is usually set to the left side above the forks. Lay a butter knife diagonally on the plate. Dessert spoons and forks can be set above the plate with the fork nearest the plate and tongs pointing right. Set the spoon above the fork, pointing left.
- Coffee cups look nice placed to the right of a setting with a coffee spoon resting on its saucer.
- Napkins can be placed to the left of forks or under forks. You can also place on a plate, charger or attractively displayed in glassware.
Note: To help you remember the basic positions for a place setting, consider using the age-old reminder, “forks”. The “o” represents the plate. Forks are set to the left of the plate and to the right rest knives, and then spoon
