How to Set a Table According to Different Dining Settings
It's no secret that everyone has a favourite food. After all, everyone has to eat, and the best way to keep the stomach satisfied is to eat something you love. Of course, an exquisite experience is necessary, especially if you're hosting a dinner party for extended family members or your closest friends. There's no better way of doing this than by setting the table.
Setting the table has been around for as long as anyone can remember. It used to be a thing with monarchs and other elites, especially from the 18th century. Consequently, it has caught up with most of the masses enough to be still practised today, especially in fine dining restaurants. Table settings can be divided into two distinct categories: casual and formal. Few people know how to set the table correctly, so we'll guide you in this article.
What Should You Get?
When setting the table, you must have the following:
- Tablecloth
- Napkins
- Placemats
- Plates
- Bowls and saucers
- Utensils (spoons, forks, and knives)
- Glassware
- Wine glasses
It's worth noting that not everything has to be present, such as wine glasses. This is because drinking wine is often for formal occasions, but you can still take them out for casual dining if you want to.
How to Do a Casual Table Setting
The casual table setting is relaxed and doesn't require much in terms of the number of utensils. A casual table setting is often seen in households and can be used on formal and informal occasions. To do this, the steps are as follows:
- Place the napkin on the left of the plate.
- Put the fork on the left of the napkin.
- Place the knife on the right of the fork.
- Put the spoon on the right of the knife.
- Put the glass above the knife.
- Place the plate in the centre of the table.
Formal Table Setting
Formal table settings are for the most formal occasions. This can include weddings, banquets, and other formal events. The steps to do a formal table setting are as follows:
- Place the placemat on the table.
- Place the charger on top of the placemat.
- Place the dinner plate on top of the charger.
- Place the salad plate on top of the dinner plate.
- Place the bread plate on the left side of the salad plate.
- Place the butter knife on the bread plate.
- Place the water glass on the right side of the salad plate.
- Place the wine glass on the right side of the water glass.
- Place the fork on the left side of the dinner plate.
- Place the knife on the right side of the dinner plate.
- Place the spoon on the right side of the knife.
Why Table Settings Matter
Table settings are necessary because they give the guest a sense of how they are supposed to eat the meal. Aside from establishing a theme or mood, table settings can also help guests feel more comfortable and at ease. Table settings are also essential to the dining experience, as they can help guests feel more comfortable and at ease.
Table settings can also help to create a more cohesive dining experience. When all table settings are coordinated, it can help to create a more uniform look that can make the dining experience more enjoyable.
Should You Practice It?
Practising table setting is a personal preference, but it's a good idea for those hosting a dinner party or other large gatherings. Otherwise, a simple setup with plates and utensils is more than enough. Since practising can help improve your skills, it may be worth it for those planning to host large gatherings.
Conclusion
Table settings are essential for hosting a dinner party or other large gatherings. While the specifics of a table setting may vary depending on the occasion, some general guidelines should be followed. When you do, your guests will appreciate the effort because aside from providing good food, you also establish an admirable image.
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