How to Set a Table for Formal Dining

You've sent out the invitations and now it is time to prepare to host your formal dinner party. The menu is set, the tablecloth is pressed, and the center piece adorns the table. This is a special occasion and not a tailgating party. You want everything perfect including the table setting. The final touch will be setting the dinnerware for a formal table.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Place on the table first the dinner plates. Each person will have a place setting and the plate should be placed centered in the place setting.

2. A folded or rolled napkin with napkin ring is put in the center of each dinner plate.

3. Follow this simple rule of thumb to remember how to set the formal silverware. The meal will be eaten starting with the silverware to the outside. This means that the silverware closest to the plate will be used last.

4. For a typical formal place setting the right side of the plate, nearest to the plate, is where your knife will go. The sharp edge of the knife will face the plate. To the right of the knife will be your spoon. The dessert spoon has a special place directly above the place.

5. The silverware to the left is reserved for the forks. As a general rule there will be a salad fork closest to the plate. Unlike casual meals, the salad is served last for formal dining. The entrée fork will be to the left of the salad fork.

6. You will place the bread plate directly above the forks. A butter knife is placed across the bread plate.

7. Above and to the left of the plate is where you will place the water glass.

8. The dessert is served last, along with the option of serving coffee. The dessert fork, coffee cup, and coffee spoon are brought out with the dessert.

Tips & Warnings

• These steps to set a table for formal dining do not take into consideration additional amenities and servings such as seafood, alcoholic beverages, or the need for a steak knife.