How to Create a fun table for dinner guests

Even if company is coming just for a BBQ, you can still set a table that is personable and fun, without feeling formal or fussy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Table Cloth
• Centerpiece
• Plate Mats
• Individual salt/pepper shakers
• Cloth Napkins

1. Use a light colored table cloth that will not overpower your table settings or napkins.
2. Set the table with the plates and silverware you like best. Setting them on top of cork place mats with scenery adds a European flair.
3. Use cloth napkins (unless you are serving BBQ ribs!). It’s a small touch that makes a table elegant and adds color. Fold them into triangles and place over the plate diagonally if you do not have napkin holders.
4. Buy small individual salt/pepper shakers to put out for guests at the table so they don’t have to share.
5. You use silverware from the outside in…put that salad fork on the outside and the dinner fork on the inside.
6. Have the water glasses on the table and fill with ice and water when the meal is almost ready. No need to add more wine glasses to the table, unless people are drinking cocktails prior to dinner.
7. Let people bring their wine glasses to the table as they may have wine left in the glass they started with and you don’t need two wine glasses for each person on the table.

Tips & Warnings

• Since it’s a casual dinner, it’s OK to keep the dessert forks and spoons off the table until you are ready to use them. Too much silverware makes people nervous about which to use first.
• Instead of buying wine glasses in sets of two or four, buy individual glasses. This gives a more unique look to the table, and everyone knows exactly which glass is theirs.
• Frequent yard sales or antique stores, looking for unique plates. This also adds to the casual elegance of your table (and is a great conversation piece!)
• Be sure to offer your guests crackers and cheese or other light snacks prior to dinner if you are serving alcohol.
• Encourage your guests to stay the night if there is no designated driver or if someone has had too much to drive and drive safely.