THE NATURAL HOST
HOW TO SET THE PERFECT TABLE
The art of table setting is a small touch that can make even the most casual weekday meal feel special. Taking the time to set the table even in the most simple way, creates a sense of importance around a meal. Learn the three main table settings from basic to formal and you’ll know how to set a table for a dinner party and be equipped to handle any hosting task that comes your way.
Basic Table Setting
How to set a basic table setting:
- Place a dinner plate in the middle of the table setting.
- Put a napkin to the left of the plate, folded in any way you prefer.
- Rest a fork on top of the napkin.
- Place a knife to the right of the plate.
- Optional: Set a water glass or coffee cup above the knife, slightly to the right.
When to use a basic table setting: Use this casual table setting for laid back meals. It can make an everyday family dinner feel more special and create a lovely sense of occasion when hosting friends for a relaxed one plate, one-course meal like a curry or braai. You can add extras like a spoon (to the right of the knife) or a side plate if your meal calls for it.
Finishing touch: Make the most casual of dining tables feel a touch more refined by placing a serving of condiments in small decorative dishes and bowls. For example, instead of placing a whole bottle of sauce on the table, decant some into a small dish with a spoon to elevate your table setting in a simple way.
Informal Table Setting
How to set an informal table setting:
- Place a dinner plate in the middle of the table setting.
- Place a napkin in the centre of the plate. It can be folded, or placed in a napkin ring.
- Place the smaller salad fork and larger dinner fork on the left side of the plate with the dinner fork on the inside.
- On the right side of the plate starting with a dinner knife, place a knife, a teaspoon and a soup spoon.
- A water glass goes above the dinner knife.
- A wine glass to the right of the water glass. (Use the correct type of glass for the wine you will be serving)
When to use an informal table setting: Although the official name is ‘informal’, this setting is usually used for smart events like weddings or special celebrations. Use this table setting when you are hosting a dinner party or meal that you want to make feel like an occasion.
Finishing touch: Placing flowers and candles on the centre of the table will make your dinner feel extra special. Remember to make sure your additions to the table don’t obscure the view of the other guests, decor is important but shouldn’t get in the way of easy flowing and comfortable conversation at the table.
Formal Table Setting
How to set a formal table setting
- Place an ironed tablecloth on the table.
- Set a placemat or decorative service plate in the middle of the setting.
- Place a dinner plate on top of the placemat/service plate and a salad plate on top of that.
- A bread or side plate should be placed to the top left of the dinner plate. A butter knife goes on top of the side plate.
- The smaller salad fork and larger dinner fork belong on the left side of the plate with the dinner fork on the inside.
- A napkin should be placed to the left of the salad fork.
- On the right side of the plate starting with a dinner knife, place a knife, teaspoon, and soup spoon.
- Make sure the cutlery is evenly spaced and the bottoms lined up with the bottom of the dinner plate.
- Place a dessert spoon horizontally, above the serving plate, handle towards the right, and a cake fork if cake is being served, below it handles pointing in the opposite direction.
- If you are using a place card it should be placed above the dessert cutlery.
- A water glass goes above the dinner knife.
- red wine glass below the water glass and slightly to the right.
- A white wine glass below the red wine glass and slightly to the right.
- Lastly, a cup and saucer are placed above the soup spoon and slightly to the right.
When to use a formal table setting: This setting is used for a 6-course meal and is usually seen at black-tie events. Use this setting for your home-based event when you really want to create a show-stopping meal experience.
Finishing touch:
At the end of the day, rules are made to be broken. These table settings should be seen as guides. They should work for you and your occasion. Remember that any items that form part of a traditional table setting should only be included if they are needed for the meal. Not serving soup? Leave the soup spoon out of your setting.
Dinner table setting ideas
Traditional: Choose classic white crockery and white table linens for a traditional, uncluttered setting.
Eclectic: Choose vibrant, printed table linens and stoneware crockery to create an eclectic bohemian feel for your dinner setting.
Natural: Choose earthy shades like stone and mustard for your table linens with straw or woven accessories to create a warm and natural table setting.
