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Step 1
Choose the theme or atmosphere of your dinner party before setting your table properly. If the dinner party is going to be a bit more casual, and you are going to set up a buffet, the daily silverware is appropriate. If the dinner party is a formal occasion, use the sterling silverware (or your best silverware) to fit the mood.
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Step 2
Choose utensils according to what is being served. If you are serving shrimp, place a shrimp fork on the table for each of your guests. If you are planning to serve dessert, then ensure that a dessert fork is placed across the top of each place setting.
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Step 3
Place all items in the proper positions. Work your way in from the left side of the plate: appetizer fork, salad fork, entree fork. A napkin should be placed under the forks. Stack the plates in the order guests will use them: soup bowl on top of the salad plate on top of the entree plate. On the right side of the plate, working in from the right: soup spoon, entree spoon, knife. At the top of the place setting is the dessert fork/spoon. Finish with glasses on the right hand side above your knife and spoons: starting inside moving to the right: water glass, white wine glass, red wine glass. Also, place a butter plate and knife above the forks.
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Step 4
Plan your centerpiece according to the mood of your party. It can be as simple as a dozen lemons in a vase, or as extravagant as a custom order floral arrangement. Don't make the centerpiece too tall, or your guests will struggle to see other guests across the table.
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Step 5
Look at your table when you have finished. Make sure everything is in place, all the necessary utensils are available, and, of course, enjoy your masterpiece.
