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Table Setting. Discover the Guide to Decorate Your Table and Follow Etiquette Rules

When organizing a lunch or dinner, table setting is a fundamental element to create a welcoming and refined atmosphere.

It’s not just about placing cutlery and plates on the table, but about caring for every detail to make the culinary experience even more enjoyable. In this guide, you’ll discover how to best decorate your table and respect etiquette rules, ensuring an unforgettable experience for your guests.

1. The Choice of the Tablecloth

The tablecloth is one of the main elements of table setting. It should be chosen carefully, based on the style of the event and the type of dishes that will be served. Here are some tips for choosing the tablecloth:

  • Choose a high-quality tablecloth, preferably in natural fabric like linen or cotton.
  • Consider the color of the tablecloth based on the theme of the event. White is always a safe choice, but you can also opt for more vibrant colors or neutral shades.
  • Ensure that the tablecloth is the right size for your table. It should cover the surface completely, without being too long or short.

2. Setting Up Plates and Cutlery

Once the tablecloth is chosen, it’s time to think about setting up the plates and cutlery. Here are some tips for a flawless table setting:

  • Place the main plates at the center of the table, so they are easily reachable by all guests.
  • Arrange the cutlery in an orderly manner, with knives to the right of the plates and forks to the left. Dessert cutlery can be placed above the main plates.
  • If you need to use many pieces of cutlery, consider using a serving cutlery set to avoid overloading the table.

3. The Selection of Glassware

Glassware is another important element of table setting. Here are some tips for selecting glassware:

  • Use high-quality glasses, preferably in clear glass.
  • Arrange the glasses in an orderly way, with water glasses to the left of the wine glasses.
  • If you will serve different types of wine during the meal, consider using different glasses for each type of wine.

4. Using Centerpieces

Centerpieces are a great way to decorate the table and create a welcoming atmosphere. Here are some tips for using centerpieces:

  • Choose a centerpiece that fits the style of the event. You can opt for fresh flowers, candles, or decorative objects.
  • Make sure the centerpiece is not too high, so as not to obstruct the view of guests.
  • Avoid centerpieces that are too bulky or that may interfere with the serving of dishes.

5. Etiquette Rules

For a perfect table setting, it’s important to respect etiquette rules. These rules are based on courtesy and elegance and can make a difference in your guests’ experience. Here are some etiquette rules to keep in mind:

  • Do not rest your elbows on the table during the meal.
  • Use napkins correctly, placing them on your laps during the meal.
  • Maintain an upright posture and do not put your hands in your pockets during the meal.

Conclusions

Table setting is a fundamental element to create a welcoming and refined atmosphere during a lunch or dinner. Choosing the right tablecloth, arranging plates and cutlery in an orderly manner, selecting suitable glassware, and using appropriate centerpieces are just some of the considerations to keep in mind. Additionally, it’s important to respect etiquette rules to ensure an unforgettable experience for your guests. By following these tips, you will be able to decorate your table in the best way and create a unique atmosphere