How to Set a Table Like a Southerner for Any Occasion
Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Rachael Burrow
Some might argue that setting a table is a lost art, but for those of us in the South, it's a skill that's ingrained in us from the get-go. As kids, our sole dinner responsibility was setting the table while Mama finished the meal. Each place setting received a fork placed on a folded napkin, a knife (blade facing toward the plate!), and a spoon. That spoon many not have always been touched, but by golly, it was on the table…just in case.
Setting a standard table is one thing, but the real fun starts when we get to play with colors, patterns, and special plates for casual parties and formal occasions. If you're setting an elevated table for the first time, though, your mind might start spinning with all of the suggestions and rules. Where should the water glass go? How many forks are appropriate? What is the point of a charger plate? Don't worry, we have you covered with a step-by-step guide for how to set a table for almost any gathering you can think of.
Before you get lost in the details, Paige Minear of The Pink Clutch recommends starting with a theme, whether it's the table or the menu. "That way, it's easier to make choices about linens, china, and other details," she says. "If you're hosting a shrimp boil, you likely won't use white linens, unless you want a mess!"
Paige also advises to be aware of the timing of your party. "Only use the flatware, glassware, and table accessories for the appropriate time of day. For example, you shouldn't use candles for a breakfast or a lunch."
Attention to detail can go a long way, too. "When entertaining, even for casual meals, I like to use place cards, so there's no confusion about where anyone should sit. Pair people who have things in common and try to separate couples to encourage conversation."
To keep things simple, we've broken the table settings into three categories. Think of this as your dining primer.
How to Set a Standard Table
Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller
A standard table setting is the base of it all. Think of this informal table setting as your foundation for every table you design. From this premise, you can build upon the setting to create anything from a luncheon table to a formal table. It's your starting point.
Your Step-by-Step Guide for Setting a Table
Place the tablecloth or placemat on the table.
Add the dinner plate in the center of the placemat or directly in front of the chair.
Fold the dinner napkin and lay it to the left of the plate.
Put the dinner fork on top of the napkin.
Put the knife and soup spoon to the right of the plate. The knife's blade faces toward the dinner plate. Check that all of your utensils are level from left to right.
Last, add your water or beverage glass. Emily Post explains that the best way to know where to put your glass is easy. Simply place it directly above the knife.
How to Set a Casual (Yet Elegant) Table
Carmel Brantley; Styling: Page Mullins, Emily Painter
A casual table is where you can start to have a little more fun with your china, flatware, and glassware selections. In fact, you've likely oohed and ahhed over many casual table settings. Think the addition of popular patterned salad plates or soup bowls as well as sparkly crystal wine glasses. Consider the casual yet elevated table your medium ground between a standard and a formal setting.
This type of table is ideal for bridal luncheons, intimate dinner parties, and Sunday suppers. It's also a good opportunity to use those extra table items such as bread and butter plates or napkin rings. While chargers are typically reserved for formal settings, this is the South, and we don't do things halfway. A simple rattan or woven charger adds texture. Be sure to choose either a charger or a placemat. There's no need for both.
Your Step-by-Step Guide for Setting a Casual Table
Start with a table cloth, placemat, or charger as your foundation.
Add the dinner plate in the center of the placemat or directly in front of the chair.
Place the salad plate in the middle of the dinner plate.
If there will be a soup course, put the soup bowl in the middle of the salad plate.
Fold the dinner napkin and lay it to the left of the plate.
Put the salad fork to the left of the dinner fork, and place both on top of the napkin.
Put the dinner knife and soup spoon to the right of the plate. The knife's blade faces toward the dinner plate. Check that all of your utensils are level from left to right.
If there is bread service, place the bread plate directly above the dinner napkin and fork. Put the butter knife directly on the plate at 10 o'clock with the blade facing toward the diner.
Place the water glass directly above the dinner knife.
If serving wine, put the wine glass to the right of the water glass.
How to Set a Formal Table
Hector Manuel Sanchez; Produced; Page Mullins
The formal table setting concept speaks for itself. These tables are best for special occasions or meals with three or more courses. Here, let the menu be your guide. Just because you inherited your great-grandmother's sterling silver oyster forks doesn't mean they get added to the table. Only incorporate utensils and china that you will be using for the meal. Not serving a salad? Do not add a salad fork to your formal table. Think of it as less dishes to do after a long night of hosting.
Your Step-by-Step Guide for Setting a Formal Table
Start with your table cloth as the foundation. A white tablecloth is generally used to signify a formal dinner, but Paige says it's always fun to add a little color to your table via your linens.
For a formal table setting, use a charger. Place it directly in front of the chair.
Review your menu, and add either the salad plate or soup bowl directly on top of the charger. If you will have both a soup and a salad course, the soup will be served first followed by the salad. Use (and clear) the dishes accordingly. The dinner plate will not be used until after the other course(s) are cleared.
Fold the dinner napkin and lay it to the left of the plate.
Put the salad fork to the left of the dinner fork, and place both on top of the napkin.
Put the dinner knife and soup spoon to the right of the plate. The knife's blade faces toward the dinner plate. Check that all of your utensils are level from left to right.
If there is bread service, place the bread plate directly above the dinner napkin and fork. Put the butter knife directly on the plate at 10 o'clock with the blade facing toward the diner.
Since there will likely be a dessert course, place a dessert fork or spoon directly above the charger.
A place card and individual salt and pepper bowls will go above the dessert utensil.
Place the water glass directly above the dinner knife.
If serving white wine, put the white wine glass to the right of the water glass, directly above the spoon.
If serving red wine, put the red wine glass above the white wine glass. At this point, you will have a triangle of glasses: water, white wine, and red wine.
Ultimately, there are many variations for a formal setting, not to mention incorporating things like flowers and candles. When in doubt, remember that at the end of the day, it's about your guests having a great time and a wonderful meal.
