Probably many think that setting the table in the right way is really simple. In reality this is not the case at all. A well laid table indicates refinement and a good education . Furthermore, when the hosts show the right attention to the table accessories they give a more hospitable touch to the environment for any guests.
You are organizing a dinner or lunch with friends and relatives
Or a dinner with your co-workers
Once the menu has been established, plan how to set the tableit will be of fundamental importance, because in the end the presentation also wants its part. Find out in this article how to set the table correctly according to etiquette. How to set the table in the right way
Over time, the formalisms and the very strict rules dictated by etiquette and bon ton, which required “elegant” and refined tables, gradually waned. However, on some special occasions knowing how to best welcome your guests with a table set according to etiquette is an added value that cannot help but please the diners.
Some rules on how to set the table will continue to be universal whether you want to have a table set in a simple way or if you want to set the table for Christmas. Whatever style the mise en place is, you need to think about making all the elements perfectly in harmony with each other and, above all, be careful to arrange them correctly.
Let’s analyze in detail each element to pay attention to when you want to set the table following the rules of etiquette. How to set the table: the table
Before even thinking about the mise en place, it is necessary to evaluate whether the table that will welcome guests has enough seats.. In fact, according to the rules of bon ton, each diner should have approximately 50-60 cm of space to be able to feel at ease during the meal.
Before extending the invitations, therefore, it will be best to make sure that there is enough space for everyone and, of course, that there are enough chairs for guests to sit. The latter should all be the same, to avoid giving that really unsightly “remedied” effect. How to set the table: the tablecloth
During a lunch or dinner, the tableclothand the real protagonist element. In fact, the choice of the tablecloth will be decisive because it is precisely in function of it that all the other elements will be chosen. This element is also crucial in establishing the atmosphere that will accompany the meal.
An elegantly set table, for example, requires a simple tablecloth, possibly white or, at most, with undemanding pastel colors , and in a quality fabric such as linen or cotton. It is important that the tablecloth covers the whole table and goes down about 30/40 cm on each side.
Furthermore, it should be remembered that, regardless of the choice of tablecloth, it is advisable to previously place a table coverboth to avoid the risk of ruining the table with some stains and to muffle the noises as much as possible.
As a final touch, to give your table that extra touch of class and refinement, it is possible to think of a dinner table of flowers . Here too, the rule dictates not to be too excessive, but to opt for simplicity . However, if you want to set the table creatively, moving away from the austerity of traditions, there is nothing wrong with opting for a modern declination, making the centerpiece a real work of art that recalls the attention of all diners. How to set the table: napkins
Once you’ve established the style of the tablecloth, it’s time to think about thenapkins which, of course, will have to match perfectly with it. According to the etiquette, in fact, it is preferable that the fabric of the napkin is the same as the tablecloth. However, should you decide to “disobey” this rule and in any case keep in mind that it is better to opt for a one-colored napkin that matches the colors chosen for the tablecloth and plates.
A very important rule, however, is that of the napkin size , which in no case should never be larger than 40 cm x 40 cm .. As far as the position is concerned, however, there is still a world of contradictions in this regard so that, in this case, it is possible to position it in any way. Generally, however, the napkin should never go under the cutlery. Furthermore, according to etiquette, no type of artistic folding is envisaged or, at most, the simplest possible solution is acceptable. How to set the table: the dishes
For the dishes , the rules of etiquette state that, first of all, they must be in the same color and in harmony with the rest of the elements on the table. Above all, for a proper mise en place, the presence of the placemat is fundamental , which must remain on the table until the end of the meal and should be between 33 and 35 cm large.
The charger must also have at least one plate on it for the duration of the meal. The number of dishes, on the other hand, will vary according to the number of courses. The maximum limit is 3 dishes: appetizer, first and second. Any decorations on the dishes must be turned towards the diners, so that they can appreciate its beauty.
All other additional dishes such as those for cheese, fruit, sweets and salad half moons should only be served when needed. The diners must also have, positioned at the top left, a bread plate on which to put small buttons of bread with oil to be reintegrated during the duration of the meal.How to set the table: cutlery
The rules for setting the table provide that the cutlery must first of all be of the same style and coordinated with the rest of the mise en place. Although it might seem cumbersome and complex, in reality the cutlery is arranged next to the plates simply following the criterion of use .
The fork will be positioned on the left, as it is used with the left hand, with the prongs facing upwards. Only one fork can be placed on the right: the one dedicated to oysters. The knife instead must be positioned on the right. In etiquette, the direction of the knife is fundamental: the bladein fact it must necessarily be turned towards the plate. If a soup is included between the courses, the spoon must be placed immediately after the knife, on the right.
The fruit cutlery must be positioned in front of the plate , arranged in the center with the handle towards the hand with which to use: the knife with the handle to the right and the fork with the handle to the left.
If dessert is required , the spoon must be placed on top of the fruit fork (as it will be used first) with the handle positioned to the right. How to arrange the table: the glasses
Iglasses , possibly goblets in glass or transparent crystal, must be placed at the top right of the tip of the knife. Starting from the left you will have to arrange: a large glass for water and then all the other glasses. If there are two different types of wine (red and white), the glass for white wine is placed first and then the one for red wine , which must be slightly larger.
The glass intended to be used during dessert must always be positioned slightly higher than all other glasses. If champagne is provided, it will be essential to make sure you have the right glasses, ie flutes .How to set the table: bottles and jugs
During more formal occasions, the rules on how to set the table state that bottles and jugs must be placed on a trolley or a small table next to the table. However, for more confidential occasions it is acceptable to place them on the table so that guests can have them close at hand.
Absolutely avoid bottle coasters or coasters as it would be like admitting to being worried about the condition of the tablecloth. An excess of attention that would make the most attentive guests uncomfortable and condition. How to set the table: accessories and complements
Those seen previously are the essential elements that you need to have on your table to best welcome your guests. However, there are obviously other elements that can be integrated as well.
For example, an always very welcome and pleasant complement is the place card that not only gives more elegance, but is also able to give a creative touch to your table.
Finally, it is perhaps even essential to integrate special containers for salt and pepper into your mise en place . It is possible to opt for particular containers or, if you really want to give a touch of class and refinement, to choose mignon salt and pepper shakers to be placed along the table for every two diners.
Regardless of how you decide to set your table, remember the few basic rules to follow and make sure that all the elements are in harmony with each other. For the rest, give free rein to your creativity and imagination!
