3 WAYS TO SET YOUR TABLE AND IMPRESS YOUR GUESTS
Basic/Casual Table Setting
A basic table setting generally includes a plate, fork, knife, spoon, and napkin. The napkin should be folded and placed to the left of the plate with the fork on top.
The knife and spoon are to the right of the plate with the blade of the knife facing towards the plate as seen in the above photo.
A water glass is positioned above the plate and slightly to the right so it sits in between the plate and knife.
A variation: All utensils together on top of the napkin. The fork, knife, and spoon (in that order) sit on top of the folded napkin which is then placed to the left side of the plate. This is a simple and easy way to set a casual table for a breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner.
If you are not serving soup, tea, or coffee, you can eliminate the spoon. There is no reason to have anything on the table you don't intend to use.
Semi-Formal Table Setting
For a semi-formal table setting you will have all the same elements as the basic table setting with the addition of a salad plate, soup bowl, and wine glass.
The salad plate or soup bowl can be placed on top of the dinner plate. A wine glass can be placed to the right and slightly above the water glass.
You can also add an elevated look by choosing a more upscale set of flatware or a colorful linen napkin. Don't be afraid to try different patterns, colors and textures.
You can also play around with different napkin folds such as a triangle fold, pocket fold or knot tied instead of the basic rectangle fold.
Formal Table Setting
For a more formal look you will want to go all out with your table setting and decor to bring it all together.
Next to your fork, add a salad fork and beside the spoon, add a soup spoon. A dessert spoon can also be added and placed horizontally above the plate. If you plan to serve bread, place a bread plate above the napkin.
If you are serving champagne, white wine and/or red wine don't forget to have the appropriate glassware for each.
For a more personal touch consider adding tent cards with each guests name written on it and sit it above the plate at each place setting.
Elevate your look even more with candles, flowers or greenery in the center of the table, textured linens or charger plate for a bit more style.
If you don't like eveything to match, consider mixing it up by adding some variety such as mix and match dinnerware, gold flatware, ceramic plates instead of china, or colorful water goblets.
Designing your table should be fun so play around with ideas and get creative!
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