Whether you are a seasoned event professional or a “newbie” to the community, we all need to understand the fundamentals of a proper table setting. It is a reflection of an understanding of etiquette and can affect your design portfolio.
HOW TO SET A PROPER DINING TABLE
Traditions and cultures often influence what is proper for a table setting; it varies depending where you live. As long your table is organized - every place setting the same, all the essentials conveniently placed, and you've dressed the surface to create a warm dining space you are on the right track. Here is how to set a table for a perfect dinner.
Bread and Butter The bread plate goes above the forks, with the butter knife placed diagonally across the edge of the plate, handle on the right side and blade facing down.
Glassware Water, wine, juice, or iced tea are placed at the top right of the dinner plate, above the knives and spoons.
Dinner Knife The dinner knife is set immediately to the right of the plate, cutting edge facing inward If the main course is meat, a steak knife can take the place of the dinner knife.
Forks The dinner fork, the larger of the two, is for the main course; the smaller fork is for salad or appetizers.
Dinner Plate Usually the first thing placed on the table unless you’re using a charger.
Spoons Spoons go to the right of the knife. The soup spoon goes to the far right (outside) of the dinner knife; the teaspoon or dessert spoon goes to the left (inside) of the soup spoon, next to the dinner knife.
Examples for a “Traditional Informal” Placesetting. Further details and placement for other utensils on page 2. Have Questions? Call Us: 415-715-6900