Set a Formal Table the Easy Way

Hosting a dinner party can be intimidating enough, but for many the idea of setting a formal table can be too big a fear to conquer. Do not let the unknown of setting a formal table scare you, a beautifully set table is a fantastic canvas on which to serve your meal. Before you begin setting your individual place settings, make sure that you will have enough space to comfortably seat all of your guests. Your table should provide enough room to evenly space out all of you dinnerware, stemware, and flatware.

After you have draped your table top in a linen tablecloth, begin by setting out the dinner plates. Starting with the dinnerware will allow you to make sure each guests will have plenty of room while at the table. Ensure everyone will have ample elbow room by leaving approximately two feet on each side of the dinner plate before placing the next. Once you plates are set, you can set your cups and glasses (which always go to the right side of the plate) and your butter and salad plates (which always go to the left side).

The next step in setting your formal table settings is the flatware. Always place silverware in the order it will be used starting from the outside in. In order to avoid guests' confusion, only place what will be used on the table. Forks are always placed to the left of the plate and knives and spoons to the right. When setting out the knives, remember that their cutting edges of the knives should always face in. If you are serving a course that will require a cocktail fork, this is placed to the very outside right of the plate.

Traditionally, napkins are placed to the very left of the forks. Although this is the most traditional way to set the napkins, how you place them can be completely determined by the style of your table and/or occasion. A more modern way is to set the napkins directly in the center of the dinner plate (on top).

When placing stemware on the table, note that there is a traditional way in which the glasses should be placed. Always think smallest to largest (like tallest in the back) when setting the glasses. Wine glasses should always be placed above into knives in a straight line, then slanting down and in with the tallest in the back. For example your setting might include a tall water goblet in the back, a wine glass next, then a dessert wine glass in the front. Again, only place out what you will be serving to avoid confusion and provide more space. Coffee cups are placed to the right or brought out after the meal has ended.

Many hostesses are overwhelmed when setting a formal dinner table, however just remember to try and make it as clear as possible for your guests. If they feel comfortable at your table, you will as well. With a properly set table that functions without confusion, everyone can focus on the meal being presented and the great company that surrounds it.