A properly set table is a sign of the attentive attitude of the hostess to her guests. You need to try not only to surprise everyone with your culinary skills, but also to make the most pleasant impression possible. The correct arrangement of dishes and cutlery creates a welcoming, friendly atmosphere, has a positive effect on mood and improves appetite.
How to set a festive table? It's not difficult at all, you just need to know a few secrets! We will try to teach you the basic rules, and the photos presented in this article will tell you how to decorate a beautiful table for guests at home.
Placement of tablecloth and runner
Stores offer a wide selection of textiles for interior decoration. Regardless of whether you are a follower of the classic style or a lover of experimentation, you are sure to find something for yourself.
Traditionally, it is customary to choose a white satin tablecloth. Remember: there are no strict restrictions, it all depends on your idea, the interior of the room, etc. However, a properly set table requires the use of light colors: beige, champagne, etc.
The tablecloth should be starched and well ironed. If it is made of thin material, then it is best to place a thick piece of fabric under it. This way it will stop sliding, and the sound of instruments will be less audible. Paper tablecloths and plastic-based tablecloths are not suitable for special occasions; they are best left for outdoor trips.
Interesting : a modern way to decorate a holiday table is to use special runners and plates.
3 Choose the right textiles
Source: unsplash.com
The main must-have of a festive table is a tablecloth, because better than any decor it gives the feast a special, solemn atmosphere, even if you have the most ordinary tableware. It can be supplemented with paths that match the style. Be sure to make sure that the tablecloth is clean and ironed before guests arrive.
The main thing to consider when choosing it is the size and compliance with the shape of the table. The correct tablecloth hangs from it “by two palms,” that is, approximately 20-25 cm. Pay attention to the textile material. It is desirable that it be natural, because oilcloth coverings are considered bad manners.
If you are afraid that guests will stain the fabric, for example, at a children's birthday party, then use a Teflon-impregnated tablecloth. Such tablecloths are called “anti-vandal”. They are sewn from natural fabrics, but thanks to the impregnation, moisture and fat collect in droplets on the surface and do not leave stains. By the way, other table textiles can be made from the same fabric: plates, napkins and the same table runners.
The most versatile tablecloth color for any event is white. This is a win-win option, especially if you have little experience in table setting. The textile covering can also be themed, for example, with the characters of the birthday boy’s favorite cartoon, if he is under 12 years old, or with a neutral print. In general, a birthday does not imply any specific color schemes, so rely on personal preferences.
Plates placement
Table setting begins with arranging the plates:
- Use one type of place settings to stick to a specific style. Place the largest bottom plate in the center of each seating to serve as a base for main courses and appetizers.
- To the left of the snack plate, diagonally, a special pie plate is usually placed, on which butter and pieces of bread are placed.
- It is necessary to periodically remove the dishes and replace them with clean ones. This is done at least once in one evening, and sometimes more.
Placement of cutlery
Learn a few simple rules that will definitely help you set the table correctly:
- Knives are usually placed on the right side with the blade facing the plate, forks - on the opposite side with the pointed part up.
- There are several types of appliances: snack bars, for desserts (cakes, pastries, etc.), for meat/fish dishes. The first group is located at the edges of the plate, since it is customary to start any meal with appetizers. Thus, those devices that guests will use first are placed further from the plate.
- The dessert set is placed immediately behind the plate parallel to the edge of the table.
- If your home menu includes a first course, then place the spoon near the knife with the rounded part up.
- Be sure to place a butter knife on top of the pie plate.
Dinner
Dinner is served according to the same principle. The table is covered with a well-ironed tablecloth: for a formal dinner, choose a plain one; for a family or friendly dinner, choose a tablecloth with a pattern or border around the edges.
You can replace the serving plate with a round mat, which will serve a decorative function
You can turn the glasses upside down if you are setting the table in advance or outdoors. This is what restaurants located on the street do.
The main dish, appetizer and fish plate are placed on the serving plate. On the left diagonally there is space for a bread and dessert plate (it is served directly with dessert and fruit). For a home dinner in a narrow circle, 1-2 plates are enough, for example, a main plate and a snack plate.
Serving a light dinner
The number of utensils is determined by the number of dishes. The order is the same: on the right is a table knife for hot dishes, followed by fish and snack knives. A tablespoon is placed above the main plate (if there is dessert, the spoon is moved to the right knife, and dessert utensils are placed above the plate). Forks are placed on the left: closer to the plate there is a fork for hot food, then a fork for fish and then a fork. All dishes and snacks that are not served individually are served with tongs and spoons.
Classic dinner setting
In most countries, the following order of dishes is accepted at official dinners: appetizers, soup (broth), fish dish, meat dish, dessert, fruit, coffee. Dishes are changed every 15-20 minutes.
Table setting at home. Scheme for dinner
Glasses and glasses for drinks are placed to the right of the main plate in the order in which drinks are served: for water, for aperitifs, for wines, for spirits. The glass for the main drink remains on the table throughout the meal, the rest can be removed when changing dishes.
For an everyday dinner and meeting with friends, 1-3 glasses are enough: for water, for wine or beer, for strong alcohol. The beer glass is placed on a stand to protect the tablecloth from beer foam.
For dinner with friends or a party at the dacha, the table can be set in a more democratic home style
Dishes with hot dishes, salads and snacks are placed in the center of the table, and closer to the edge of the table - a bread box, sauce boats, jugs and bottles of drinks.
Napkins for dinner can be decorated with special rings or folded into shapes.
The table setting for dinner is completed with a flower arrangement and candles. Candles should be placed in special candlesticks or on stands
You don’t have to limit yourself to candles, figurines and flowers - make nameplates for each invited guest
Serving glasses, glasses, wine glasses
Each type of drink has its own type of glass. Their place is to the right of the plates, and they must be placed strictly in a single line at an angle of 45 degrees. When placing, follow the sequence in which you will offer alcohol.
Different types of drinks are usually served at specific times, so glasses are put away along with other cutlery. Only a special device intended for water remains on the table all the time.
Tip : Make sure the glasses match the types of drinks you have. After all, their taste and smell will be correct only if you did it correctly!
Stages and rules of table setting
Before decorating the table, decide on the style and character of the feast. Serving, regardless of style and type, takes place in several stages. In this case, it is desirable to maintain a certain sequence of actions.
Selection and placement of tablecloths and runners
Prepare the tablecloth and cloth napkins in advance. It is extremely important that the tablecloth is in perfect condition, washed and ironed.
Some designers argue that the more formal the event, the whiter the tablecloth should be, while others insist that the textiles match the overall interior or be matched to the curtains.
Place the canvas so that the corners are opposite the legs, and the edges hang down by 25–30 cm. Depending on the serving style, openwork patterns or designs are allowed on the tablecloth.
An additional decoration for the table will be the recently popular table runner, which lies in the center and differs in color from the main tablecloth.
Arranging the plates
Arrange the plates in accordance with established standards. The number of dishes is determined by the variety of dishes served. Place the dishes for the main treats directly in front of the guest, approximately 2.5 cm from the edge, and they are placed on top of each other in accordance with the sequence of dishes served. Place the pie plate for bread products diagonally to the left.
Do not forget that the plates should look presentable, be clean, without cracks and polished to a shine.
Cutlery layout
Each guest must have his own set of cutlery; the number of such sets is determined by the number of dishes served. In addition to individual cutlery, there should be other devices on the table for general treats.
To the right of the plate, place the knives, blade toward the center, and the spoon, open side up. Place the fork to the left of the plate, tines up. Place a dessert spoon and fork over the plate. Place a butter knife on the pie plate.
Forks, spoons and knives should look perfect, be washed and polished to a shine.
We put glasses, wine glasses, glasses
Drinkware is placed to the right diagonally from the plate. Place a glass of water above the knife first. Next, arrange the glasses and wine glasses based on their volume and the type of drink being served.
Make sure that there are no chips or stains on the glassware. Before serving, wash the glasses thoroughly and dry with a towel. Please note that champagne glasses must be chilled before serving.
Spice utensils
If a large celebration is planned for a large number of guests, salt, pepper and other spices are placed in the center of the table. If the number of guests is small, place only salt on the table, and serve other spices with certain dishes at the request of the guest.
Serving napkins
Fabric napkins should match the tablecloth or other decorative elements. Pay special attention to their cleanliness and appearance. There are no clear rules for the placement of a textile napkin. It can be located either near the main plate or directly on it. You can also fold it beautifully and place it in a glass or on a pie plate. However, please note that only fabric napkins are laid out in this way, but paper ones are placed in the center of the table immediately before serving dishes.
Final stage: table decor
Decorative elements can be:
- table runner;
- bouquets of fresh or artificial flowers;
- bowls of fruit;
- various candles;
- elegant glassware;
- original devices.
If you have chosen a certain style for serving, do not forget that all elements must correspond to the main idea.
Napkins
Napkins are as important a detail as the tablecloth. When choosing, we recommend giving preference to a natural-based material that will definitely not cause redness and irritation to the delicate skin of the face. This element is usually placed on the left or on top of the snack plate.
Pay special attention to folding it correctly, try to do it very carefully. Having difficulties? Make it easier on yourself by using napkin rings. They will add zest and unique charm to your table setting.
Table decor
Regardless of whether it’s an anniversary, New Year, or a table setting for a birthday, the decor has never been canceled! Properly selected jewelry is already 50% of your success.
If you are planning a large-scale event, you can rent or buy special chair covers, buffet skirts and table tops. This pleasure is not cheap, but you will definitely surprise your guests!
Fresh flowers look very impressive. True, there is one unpleasant drawback - their petals may fall off or quickly wither. Then all your efforts will be in vain, and your time on decorating the table will be wasted. A few life hacks that will make this process easier and more enjoyable:
- Make sure in advance that no one on your guest list is allergic to the smell of the flowers you want to use as a decorative element.
- Avoid using plants with a strong odor, as it can overwhelm the taste of your dishes.
Important : for the feast, choose small, low vases that will not interfere with the communication of guests. Place them so that the petals do not fall into the food plates.
Principles of classic serving
Many people think that setting a table means placing the cutlery correctly. However, when decorating a banquet table, it is necessary to perform a number of actions and take into account many other nuances:
- Proper placement of chairs. They are placed so that the distance between them is 50-80 cm. If necessary, they can be moved to the right or left. Each restaurant guest is allocated an equal seat at the table.
- Don't overload the table. The utensils that are used during the meal are laid out on the table. Too many items create inconvenience for a person during a feast.
- Features of the feast. When decorating the table, the number of guests, seasonality and time of the meal, as well as the reason for the feast are taken into account. Only after all this has been determined can further action be taken.
Taking into account the above principles, we will consider in more detail the rules for setting a table in a restaurant and cafe, and also find out what cutlery there are and in what order to lay them out.
Features of serving by type
The type of table setting also differs in the time of meeting guests. Find out how to properly set the holiday table for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
For breakfast
Housewives usually begin setting the morning table by arranging plates, glass glasses for juice and cups for hot drinks (tea or coffee). For the morning meal, the bread is placed in advance on a plate with a napkin or in a basket. A piece of butter is placed in a butter dish, and the cheese and sausage are cut into slices. For jam, honey or jam, in most cases glass or plastic sockets are used.
For lunch
Use different types of plates. A knife is placed to the right of them, a dinner fork is placed to the left. Wine glasses and glasses are placed on top. Don't forget about the spice rack and napkin holder. During meals, it is allowed to use oilcloth on the dining table instead of a tablecloth; you can also cover it with transparent film.
For dinner
Table setting for dinner is similar to lunch. You can complement it with vases with fresh flowers, various figurines or an ashtray, which is placed on the corner facing the aisle.
Banquet
Preparing the premises for events is always a responsible task. It is important to take care in advance to ensure that your guests are satisfied. We offer several tips to help you organize your holiday:
- To organize a banquet, special buffet tables of different shapes are used, from which you can later create a single table. It is also planned to install special utility tables near the walls for spare cutlery.
- The decor can be complemented with candlesticks, floating candles in vases, ikebana plants, etc.
- An important element of serving is the printed menu in the cover.
Tip : before serving, carefully inspect the dishes that will be offered to guests. There should be no cracks, dirt or chips on it. Poor quality cookware must be replaced immediately.
Buffet
A buffet is a dynamic and modern way of organizing feasts. The main feature is the unusual form of the event: guests do not sit on chairs, but come up to eat the dishes that interest them. This is especially convenient at children's parties. There are certain rules that organizers need to remember:
- For the convenience of guests, tables should be located at a sufficient distance from each other. Special round stands for cigarettes, ashtrays and paper napkins are also installed in the corners of the banquet hall.
- The menu includes a wide selection of food. It is usually presented in large quantities, but is served in portions 30 minutes before guests arrive.
- There are also several secrets in the arrangement: canapés are placed in the first line, followed by various salads, and only then meat dishes. Desserts serve as the centerpiece of the table.
Coffee serving
In many countries, business negotiations are accompanied by drinking tea or coffee. This fact is not only a sign of friendliness and culture, but also has a positive effect on the company's image. So, how to set the coffee table correctly:
- Quality products are always the basis. Choose natural brewed coffee, avoid instant mixtures.
- It is necessary to first pour the drinks in a separate room where the negotiation participants are not present.
- It is necessary to preheat the coffee utensils to +40 degrees.
- Guests should be served from the left side so as not to distract them.
- Glasses need to be filled 2/3 full, not to the very top of the rim. Water (with or without sparkling water) and 2-3 types of juice should also be on the table.
Tea service
Setting a round table is especially relevant, because who among us doesn’t like to drink a cup of hot tea with our nearest and dearest? To begin, choose a bright tablecloth and a matching set. Arrange the plates, and next to them on the right, place a cup and saucer diagonally and place cutlery.
Tip : Various pastries, cakes and other sweets perfectly complement tea drinking.
Rules for arranging dishes
The festive table setting also includes details of the placement of the main dishes:
- It is better to place salt and pepper in the center of the table at a distance from each other. If desired, you can put mustard or any other sauces nearby.
- Pieces of bread are stolen onto plates and placed at different ends of the table for the convenience of guests.
- Serving dishes requires the presence of a spoon near each of them. This will make it much easier for those present to put the dish they like on their plate.
- Pay special attention to cold appetizers. They should include different types of products (meat, fish, vegetables, etc.).
- As for serving drinks, this also has its own rules and subtleties. Juices and fruit drinks are usually poured into jugs; there are glass decanters for vodka and liqueurs, and wine and whiskey are best served in bottles.
- If a large number of people are invited to the event, then follow a certain order of serving dishes. First, guests are offered cold appetizers, then hot ones. Dessert should be served at the end of the holiday.
Advice : many housewives have encountered a problem when there is a catastrophic lack of free space on the table for prepared dishes. Therefore, we recommend that you make a complete list of them in advance to avoid such a situation.
Now you know everything about how to set the table. The knowledge gained will help you make a positive impression on your guests, and the memories of the evening will last for many years. Remember: in order to decorate a set table according to etiquette, you do not need special skills and knowledge. Use our simple tips in everyday life and make your loved ones happy more often.
2 Think about the compatibility and presentation of dishes
Most housewives, when thinking about filling the table, take into account the taste compatibility and variety of products, but do not take into account the appearance. To make the serving look as impressive as possible, try to combine the dishes themselves with each other and with the overall style of the holiday.
Source: Unsplash (@jornadaprodutora)
To do this, use the three-color rule:
- the basic one chosen for the event must fill 60% of the table;
- secondary - 30%;
- accent - 10%.
All three colors naturally go together. Also, don’t forget to think about the presentation of the dishes. For example, at a party in the style of the 90s, a classic presentation for our country is suitable, and for a holiday in the setting of comic books about superheroes, prepare interesting “special effects”.
