TABLE SETTINGS

Mrs. Z says setting a table is easy if you know a few simple tricks. A great table makes a lasting impression with guests and is the sign of the perfect host or hostess! 💋

Choose a Table Linen

Select a table linen of lace, polyester, or cotton in a appropriate color and pattern to accent your China or dishes. Make sure it is wrinkle free before placing it on the table.

Create the Centerpiece

Add fresh flowers, candles, branches, fruit or gourds, fairy lights, and other items to create an eyecatching centerpiece. The sky is the limit for creativity. Just make sure your guests can see over it.

Add Chargers or Placemats

Make your China or dinner plates stand out by placing a charger or placement underneath the center plate. Make sure the charger accents the plate's color and style.

Add China/Plate Settings

Your dishes or China set the tone for the table. Select the china or plate settings you wish to use. Make sure they work with your tablecloth pattern and color.

Create a Formal Place Setting

Using this easy to follow diagram, continue setting up each place setting to include a dinner plate, salad plate, roll plate, cup and saucer, stemwear, forks, knives, spoons, salad fork, dessert fork, soup spoon, etc. Make sure sterling silerware is polished.

Add Decorative Napkins

Cloth napkins can be added for a touch of class. Transform napkins into swans, komonas, points, or fourishes or use s simple napkin ring to add fare to each table setting.

Add Accessories

Place your accessories around the table. Salt and pepper shakers, butter dish, gravy boats, etc. Make sure that the salt and pepper is at both ends of the table to avoid people reaching.

Create Ambiance

Dim the lights, light your candles, turn on your fairy lights. Create a low lighting effect that makes a meal sophisticated and peaceful. Remember to never leave lit candles unattended.

Soft Background Music

As your guests enter, have soft dinner music playing in the background. YouTube or Pandora have great channels for dinner music or you can pop in a CD of your own. Music sets the mood, creates a tranquil atmoshere, and lends an element of sophistication to your meal.

A Parting Gift

Everyone likes gifts! Give your guests a small token of your appreciation for them attending your gathering. Bake some muffins, buy mini boxes of candy, or wrap up decorative soaps. Package the gifts in an attractive wrapping and place each present by the guests place setting or hand them out at the end of the evening.