how to set a table

i'm keeping it casual

pick a pattern

Adding patterned dinnerware, a mix of colors, bright prints or fun shapes instantly gives your table a fresh, laid-back look.

casual dinnerware

it's fine to use fine china!

Incredibly durable, fine china is actually a great pick for your casual table. Look for a pattern that isn't as classic & mix it in with white dinnerware for a pared-down feel.

kate spade new york white dinnerware fine china

place emphasis on placements

Go for a very simple look by accenting the table with only placements. If you want to take it up a notch, add a table runner for a fancier feel.

table linens Chilewich table linens

frame it well

Only serve the main course at the table—serve appetizers & desserts buffet-style while guests mingle. By doing so, you can skip setting out the salad & dessert silverware. Flatware is arranged around the plate in the order it is used:

• The fork is placed to the left of the dinner plate.
• The knife & spoon are placed to the right of the dinner plate with the spoon on the outermost side. Face the sharp edge of the knife toward the plate.
• A water glass gets placed above the knife.
• Napkins go under the fork or on top of the plate.

flatware & silverware

help them help themselves

For a laid-back feel that makes serving even easier, arrange appetizers & desserts buffet-style. Just be sure to have enough bowls, plates & serveware out so guests can serve themselves.

serveware

i'm feeling formal

add layers

Layering your look is key. Start with a tablecloth—the longer the drop, the more formal & fancy your table looks. Add matching placemats, napkins & a runner for a cohesive & elegant feel. Make things a bit more modern by mixing and matching dinnerware and linens in solids & prints.

table linens solid dinnerware charger plates

put it all on the table

A fancy affair always has more courses, which means your table setting needs even more. Dressing up is easy—follow the same steps for a casual table but then:

flatware & silverware glassware & stemware

• Add a soup and/or dessert spoon to the right of the knife.
• Position a coffee cup & saucer above the knife.
• White & red wine glasses, plus a water glass, sit above the coffee mug.
• Add a silver-tone or gold-tone charger under the plate.

plated elegance

Finish your formal table with the dinnerware of your choosing—ideally a 4-piece or 5-piece place setting. Classic shapes with gold, platinum, silver & gem-inspired hues look best for formal ambience.

Opal Innocence Carved Collection Wedgwood Renaissance Gold Collection

i'm all about mixing and matching

have fun

Yes, there are "rules" to setting a table, but feel free to make your own:

• don't save fine china for one fine day: make it a mainstay for casual & formal settings. Pick fine china that can be dressed up & dressed down with ease. Have fun mixing in different patterns & everyday pieces, too.
• get some color: you can set an elegant table & still have a whole lot of color. From the table linens to the dinnerware, pick shades that you love & you'll be able to incorporate them at any meal.
• feed your creativity: freshen up any setting by mixing up the centerpieces on the table—a floral centerpiece may brighten a brunch, while a tower of cupcakes may be just what that birthday soiree needs.

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