All the happy events in our lives lead us to the table. The art of table decoration can transform a simple meal into an unforgettable event. Even the finest dish will not be fully appreciated if the surrounding decor does not meet the mark. Similarly, a simple meal will bring more joy if the table is beautifully adorned. The enveloping atmosphere, created for shared communication and fun, or the luxurious setting at the forefront of decorating trends, is the key to a wonderful dinner.
To begin, we select a tablecloth – a dazzlingly white one signifies the solemnity of the occasion, while a colored one sets the tone for the meal.
In the latter case, feel free to play with prints, colors, and the mixing of materials. However, be cautious not to err in taste, and ensure that all the decor is harmonious in color and style. For example, a richly decorated tablecloth will not complement plates with elaborate patterns. Start with a white tablecloth and alter the decor seasonally. For instance, golden candlesticks in winter, small vases with bouquets and candles make the perfect duo for a spring setting, and yellow roses are ideal for adorning a summer table. A crucial detail – the edges of the tablecloth should drape at least 30 centimeters, ideally reaching the base of the seats. If you have a beautiful tabletop and prefer not to cover it with a tablecloth, opt for colored napkins with exquisite trim.
Beautiful dishware will lend a special ambiance to your dinner.
Whether porcelain or ceramic, white or colored, modern or classic - choose based on the circumstances and mood, but always remember the serving rules. Plates should be positioned about 3 centimeters from the table's edge and spaced 40 centimeters apart, so guests are neither too close to disturb one another nor too far to converse comfortably. Each guest should have only one plate. Deep plates intended for soup are pre-set on flat plates of the same size. Conversely, if an appetizer other than soup is planned, it should be served on a smaller plate and placed only when served. A small bread plate should be positioned in the upper left corner of the main plate, accompanied by a butter knife.
Do not overlook the silverware – it will add elegance to your dinner.
The arrangement of cutlery follows the logic of their use. Forks are placed to the left, and knives and the soup spoon to the right of the plate. To prevent accidents, knives are oriented with the cutting edge toward the plate. Adhere to this guideline, placing as many pieces of cutlery as there are courses: that is, utensils intended for appetizers will be positioned furthest from the plate. Dessert utensils are placed above the plate. An interesting tidbit – in France, the fork rests with its tines on the tablecloth, and the spoon's back faces the ceiling. This arrangement, known as the "French style," originated from the tradition of French jewelers engraving their monogram on the back of cutlery, in contrast to the English tradition of inscribing it inside the cutlery.
Do not dismiss the importance of cutlery rests, which emerged at the end of the 18th century. The porte-couteau (French) was utilized to prevent soiling the tablecloth and to allow for its multiple uses. Later, grand houses intentionally forwent it, unable to conceive of using the same tablecloth twice. Nowadays, they are making a comeback on our tables as precious and even whimsical accessories, adding an extra flair to the table decor. They are particularly handy when you opt not to change cutlery between courses, allowing your guests to rest their utensils without fear of dirtying the table.
Do not dismiss the importance of cutlery rests, which emerged at the end of the 18th century. The porte-couteau (French) was utilized to prevent soiling the tablecloth and to allow for its multiple uses. Later, grand houses intentionally forwent it, unable to conceive of using the same tablecloth twice. Nowadays, they are making a comeback on our tables as precious and even whimsical accessories, adding an extra flair to the table decor. They are particularly handy when you opt not to change cutlery between courses, allowing your guests to rest their utensils without fear of dirtying the table.
Glasses are arrayed above the plate in descending order. To the left, the largest glass is designated for water, followed by a slightly smaller glass for red wine, then a smaller one for white wine, and finally, in the far-right corner, somewhat further away than the others, is the glass for champagne. It's important to note that the water glass should always be filled while seated at the table.
Fabric napkins are placed on the plate, either shaped into a flower, folded origami-style, or positioned in a water glass.
Alternatively, they are folded into a rectangle and placed to the left of the fork. As a side note, avoid paper napkins, regardless of their originality, as they are meant for picnics.
Spice sets are situated at the center of the table.
And let's not forget the quintessential element of the festive table – flowers, which, particularly in the summer months, bestow a touch of enchantment upon the table.
