Every host should know how to set and decorate the table correctly. To save you from wondering what belongs where before every dinner, we have collected the most important rules for both a formal dinner and a relaxed family meal.
Keep a few simple rules in mind. Classic cutlery is used in the order of the courses, from the outside in.
How to Set the Table for a Formal Dinner
The plate. Start with the largest plate for the main course, then place the appetizer and soup plates on top as needed. Bread-and-butter plates belong at the upper left, around the 10 o’clock position. Set the butter knife on the plate at a slight angle to the left.
GlassesGlasses for wine and other drinks belong on the right side, around the 1 o’clock position. Place the red or white wine glass, or both, close to the plate. A champagne flute or water glass can stand slightly above and to the left of the wine glass.
How to Set the Table – Rules and Tips
Cutlery. Cutlery should be placed last. Put the dinner knife on the right side of the plate, followed by the fish knife, spoon, and drinkware as needed. On the left, place the forks in menu order: appetizer fork, then main-course fork. Dessert cutlery is placed above the plate.
Napkins. A napkin ring can stand beside the plate, but you can also improvise.
This kind of casual table decoration is ideal for family gatherings. It suits large or small dinners, festive or quiet meals, and evenings when conversation and freely flowing wine are the focus. It also works for pizza or spaghetti night.
The plates. A starter plate is usually enough for a warm, informal atmosphere. If you serve a first course, such as soup or salad, you can always add the right extra plate or bowl. Choose something cheerful and charming.
Table setting
Glasses are used for wine and other drinks. Place them on the right side, around the 1 o’clock position. A beer glass, red wine glass, or white wine glass is placed first, with a water glass to the left.
Cutlery. The knife should be on the right side of the plate, followed by the spoon if the menu requires one. Place the fork on the left side of the plate. If a drink needs a special utensil, make sure it is included.
Napkins. Have fun arranging the napkins. Place one on the plate, tuck in a sprig of rosemary, lay it on the table edge, or slip it below the fork setting. The possibilities are endless.
White decoration for a formal dinner
Decorate with lace
Small gifts and menus
Table decoration for a family celebration
Table decoration in white and blue
Set with a bow tie
Plate menu
Anna Lohan
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