Setting a table is an art form. It can be challenging to know how to do it properly, but with this guide, you will be able to set up a beautiful and elegant table in no time! There are many different things that you need to consider when setting the table, from the placement of the silverware to the type of glassware that you use. In this blog post, we will go over everything that you need to know in order to set a perfect table.
Choose A Theme
Before you start setting your table, it is essential to choose a theme. This will help you decide on the type of dishes and silverware that you will use and the decorations you will put on the table. Some popular themes for dinnerware include French country, Italian villa, and English garden.
Understand The Elements Of A Typical Setting
There are a number of pieces and types of settings you can choose from. Here's a breakdown of the typical elements you'll want to include in your table setting options:
Dinner Plate - Your dinner plate is the most significant part of your table setting. This is where your main course will be served and is the biggest plate in the set.
Small Plate - Your small plate is used for appetizers, desserts, and other smaller courses. This is typically placed on top of the bigger plate.
Small Bowl - A small bowl is used for soups, cereal, or other side dishes. It is typically placed to the left of the dinner plate or on top of the smaller plate.
Wine Glass - A wine glass is used for, well, wine! This is only necessary to include on the table if you plan to serve alcoholic beverages or wine.
Water Glass - A water glass is essential for table settings. This is also necessary to include in case your guests don't drink.
Mug and Saucer - Mugs and saucers are only necessary if you're serving coffee or tea. If so, they are typically placed on the right of the setting.
Flatware - Last but not least, you will need flatware, including forks, knives, and spoons. The number of each type you need will depend on the number of courses you are serving.
Choose Your Type Of Table Settings
Now that you know all of the elements that you need to include in your table setting, it is time to start putting everything together by choosing your type of table setting. The type of setting depends on the style and environment you're trying to create at the table. The most common includes:
Casual Table Setting - A casual table setting is perfect for everyday dinners or small gatherings. This type of setting is usually less formal and doesn't require all of the fancy pieces that a more formal setting would. You'll only need the basics for this type of table setting, including a dinner plate, fork, knife, and glass. The glass should sit on the top right, the napkin on the left side of the dinner plate, along with the flatware.
Semi-Formal Table Setting - A semi-formal table setting is perfect for more formal occasions, such as a dinner party. It allows the dinner table to feel more elevated without being too over the top. For a semi-formal table setting, you'll need to include all of the pieces from the casual setting, as well as some additional elements, such as dinner plate, small plate, glass, spoon, butter knife, knife, and fork. If you plan on serving dessert, you'll want to include a small fork and spoon for dessert. For the small plate and butter knife, you'll want to place them on the upper left side.
Formal Table Setting - A formal table setting is perfect for special occasions, such as holidays and weddings. This type of setting is usually very over the top and includes all of the pieces from the semi-formal setting, as well as some additional pieces, such as a charger plate, soup bowl, salad fork and knife, bread plate with a butter knife, dessert fork, and wine glass.
Tips To Create The Perfect Table
Once you understand the elements you need for a perfect table and have chosen your type of table setting, there are a few tips to keep in mind that will help make your table look even more polished and put together:
Consider The Color Scheme - When deciding on your table setting, consider the colors that you want to use. This will help create a cohesive look across all of the pieces in your setting. Since it's your dinner table, you'll want to make sure that the colors you choose complement your dinnerware.
Use A Tablecloth - Using a tablecloth is a great way to add some extra color and pattern to your table setting. It also helps to protect your table from any spills or stains. If you're using a patterned tablecloth, make sure that the colors in the pattern match your dinnerware.
Create A Centerpiece - A centerpiece is a great way to add some personality and style to your table setting. It also helps create a focal point for your guests to look at. When creating a centerpiece, make sure that it is complementary to the rest of your setting and doesn't take up too much space.
Add Some Greenery - Greenery is a great way to add some color and life to your table setting. It also helps to create a more organic and natural feel. When adding greenery, make sure that it matches the rest of your color scheme and doesn't overpower the other elements in your setting.
Pick The Right Lighting - When setting the table, it's essential to think about the light in the room. Of course, you want to make sure that you have enough light so that your guests can see what they're eating, but you also don't want too much light, or it will be too bright and overwhelming. If you're not sure how to create the proper lighting for your table, consider using candles.
Find Your Next Dinnerware Collection At Stone And Glaze!
At Stone And Glaze, we have a wide variety of dinnerware collections to choose from that will fit any type of table setting. So whether you're looking for something casual, semi-formal, or formal, we have the perfect set for you. Browse through our collections today to get started.