How to set a formal table
By: cheryl wheeler
Explains how to set a formal table
How to set the perfect formal table
Start with your table covering, linen is nice and is frequently used in combination with lace. The next thing to consider is your napkins which should match the tablecloth. A table runner can add a dramatic touch and bring color to your table. Now because this is formal you will want all your plates, silverware and stemware to match.
Place the charger plate first. It should be one inch from the edge. Put the dinner plate in the center of the charger plate. The soup bowl is centered upon the dinner plate. Above and to the left goes the salad plate with the bread plate to the left of it. Some place the salad plate under the soup bowl. This makes a lovely look with all your dishes arranged in size.
Now let us place the silverware. The dinner fork is placed to the left of the dinner plate with the salad fork the left of it. If you will be serving an appetizer that requires a fork then place the appetizer fork to the left of the salad fork. Place the bread knife across the bread plate. On the right side of the dinner plate place first the knife, sharp edge facing the plate and next to it on its right place the soup spoon, to the right of the soup spoon place the appetizer knife. The dessert spoon and fork should go horizontally above the dinner plate and with handles opposing each other. Basically you want the utensils that are used first on the outermost so as people eat the gradually move to the inside.
Next, place the white wine glass above the soup spoon, the red wine glass slightly up and left of it and the water glass slightly up and left of the wine glass or behind both wine glasses forming a triangle. If you will be serving coffee with dessert then after the entrée plates are removed and the desert plates brought out, place a cup and saucer to the right of the dessert plate with a teaspoon placed on the saucer.
Now napkins can be folded simply on the diagonal or you can get more creative and do some fancy folding. Place these on the dinner plate, to the left of your place setting or put into the water glass.
Final touches add more elegance. Don’t forget the center piece. Do make sure that your guest’s view of each other is not hampered by a tall flower arrangement. Place cards should be used for a larger dinner party. Traditionally, the host and hostess, sit at opposite ends of the table.
About the Author
Cheryl Wheeler is mother of six, publisher and author. You can check out her website at http://www.simply-amusing.com
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