Basic Rules for Table Arrangement

• Bread Plate and Matching Knife
  The bread plate is placed above the main dinnerware on the left, with a small butter knife on top. The knife is usually placed diagonally or horizontally on the bread plate, with the cutting edge facing inward. This allows guests to easily cut their bread or spread butter without disturbing the main service.
• The Cutlery from Outside to Inside
  Lay out the cutlery in the order in which you serve the dishes. Start with the outer cutlery and work inward, so you have the right cutlery on hand for each course.
• Knives and Spoons Right, Forks Left
  Place knives and spoons to the right of the plate, and forks to the left. The cutting edge of the knife points toward the plate. This is a standard rule that most people find easy to follow.
• Dessert Cutlery Above the Plate
  A fork and knife or spoon above the plate are often reserved for dessert. This makes it easy to grab the dessert cutlery when dessert time arrives. The knife or spoon points to the left, the fork to the right.
• Glasses
  The glasses are placed to the right of the plate, usually in a diagonal line. From left to right: water glass, red wine glass, and white wine glass. If there are multiple glasses, they can be placed in order of use.
• Napkin
  You can creatively fold the napkin and place it in the middle of the plate, or to the left of the forks. This gives a formal look and is practical for guests.

Examples of Table Arrangements

Informal Setting

• Cutlery: A fork on the left, knife on the right, and a spoon for soup if served.
• Glass: Just a water glass.
• Napkin: To the left of the fork or on the plate.

Formal Setting

• Multiple Courses: For a multi-course dinner, work with multiple sets of cutlery on the sides of the plate. You also have dessert cutlery at the top.
• Glasses: Multiple glasses for wine and water, neatly placed to the right of the plate.
• Plates and Napkin: A nicely folded napkin in the center of the plate can add that extra bit of luxury.

Tips for a Perfect Table

• Space utilization: Make sure everything is neatly placed with enough space between glasses, cutlery, and plates. It prevents uncomfortable situations where glasses fall over easily.
• Symmetry: Keep symmetry in mind, this creates a neat and professional look.
• Decoration: Consider a simple vase of flowers or candles to add to the atmosphere at the table, but make sure the decoration is not too high so guests can still see each other.

A good table setting shows your attention to detail and makes your guests feel welcome. With these tips, you can turn any meal into a special experience!

Be Inspired!

Are you inspired to share your own table setting? Add some of your own creativity and share the result on social media. For example, use fresh flowers or seasonal decorations to add a personal touch to your table.

Good luck with your next dinner party! And remember that a beautifully set table is more than decoration: it creates a welcoming feeling and ensures a warm start to the meal.