These days, people often overlook the importance of setting the dining table. However, it holds great significance in elevating the overall dining experience. An adequately arranged table creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, establishes the occasion’s mood, and improves the food’s visual appeal. Your guests would also feel special, seeing that you tried to set the table for the event.
Setting the dining table sounds tedious and challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. In this article, you’ll learn timeless tips for setting up your dining table regardless of the occasion.
Established Rules To Remember
It’s essential to note that table-setting rules can vary depending on the type of meal you are hosting. For instance, a formal dinner party may require a more elaborate and careful table setting, while a casual brunch with friends only needs a few considerations. Applying the established rules is key to ensuring your table setting checks all the boxes.
Here are some general practices you should follow when setting the dining table for any event.
1. Plates Should Be Positioned On Placemats
One way to achieve a clean-looking dining table is by placing the plate in the center of each placemat. This practice makes the table look more symmetrical and consistent. Purposely placing plates in the center of each placemat is a practical rule that completes the dining experience.
2. Spoons And Knives Are Typically On The Right
Generally, knives and spoons are placed on the plate’s right side since most people are right-hand dominant. It’s important to remember that spoons should be to the right of knives. Traditional etiquette has always dictated utensil placement this way. Positioning dessert spoons or forks horizontally above the plate is also customary.
3. Knives Are Positioned Facing Inward
Back then, a host displayed trust at the table by pointing his knife inwardly. And having your dinner knife pointing away from everyone remains applicable today. The opposite would give off a hostile-type vibe, and no one wants that. A knife pointed outward could also indicate a lack of safety or confidence.
You may wonder what the usual knives are on a typical dining table. Well, here they are.
Steak Knife. A steak knife is distinct because it’s serrated. This type of knife allows for easier slicing of steak.
Butter Knife. The butter knife isn’t meant for cutting because it has a rounded tip. Instead, you use it to hold and spread butter.
Fish Knife. It’s fitting to pair a fish knife with a fish fork if seafood is on the menu.
As a reminder, you must sharpen your knives for smooth dining. It is also best to clean the knives by wiping off fingerprints.
4. Ergonomics
Nothing would ruin a meal faster than feeling uncomfortable with your seating position. As the host, you must ensure that your dining setup provides sufficient comfort to your guests. You don’t want to hear squeaky sounds every time someone moves. Check out B2C Furniture’s dining sets if you need a sturdier table or better chairs.
5. Place Napkins To The Left
Napkins are on the left side, the same reason knives and spoons are on the right. Placing napkins on the left lets the diner keep their right hand clean. You can set the napkins on a napkin ring or a salad plate. If you don’t like either, you can flatten the napkins and place the forks on them.
6. Glasses Should Be Above The Knives
Placing the glasses above the knives reduces the chances of unintentional contact between the knife and the glass. This arrangement makes the glasses conveniently reachable without making contact with other utensils. Meanwhile, wine glasses should be to the right of the water glass.
7. Use Flowers
Fresh flowers are a great addition to the table to make the dining experience more colorful. If the event isn’t that formal, there’s nothing wrong with using fake flowers. Get flowers that aren’t bushy or tall since they can get in the way. A romantic-type dinner would maybe need candles, too.
Setting Your Dining Table Isn’t Complicated
Setting a dining table could be intimidating, especially when organizing a formal event. However, following these simple yet effective tips, anyone can create a commendable table arrangement.
These tips would give you a great dining experience no matter the occasion.
