Charger plates---large decorative plates--- enhance or embellish place-settings at formal dinner parties, special events such as weddings or, more frequently, everyday meals. Using a charger, sometimes also known as a service plate, is as simple as setting the table. Etiquette guides differ on how long to leave the charger in place but most suggest removing it before serving the dessert course. The charger plate is solely decorative; food is not served directly on a charger.
Place one charger plate on the table at each seat. The charger should be centered in front of the chair.
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Place one plate on top of the charger. Some etiquette books suggest placing only the first course or salad plate on the charger and later swapping it for the main course plate. Others suggest first placing the entrée plate on the charger and topping it with the first course plate that is later removed for the entrée to be served.
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Leave the charger in place throughout the first courses, including soup, salad and other small courses. Some etiquette guides, including Emily Post, call for leaving the charger on the table after the first courses, but removing it as the main course is served.
Tips & Warnings
Chargers can be used for any meal, not just special occasions. Try combining different textures and styles to create new looks for the table.
Chargers usually measure 12 to 13 inches in diameter compared with a standard dinner plate diameter of 10 inches. They come in a variety of styles, textures and colors ranging from traditional pewter to wood to glass and, in contemporary design stores, plastic.
Chargers gained popularity in the 19th century, during which they were prized primarily for their ability to protect table coverings from drips and spills off food plates. The charger regained its popularity in the 1990s as table settings became more decorative.
Service plates offer an easy way to dress up or change a table setting without having to buy all new dishes. Bright red, green and metallic chargers are popular items during the Christmas holiday season.
Charger plates may absorb some of the heat from food. Use caution when handling after the charger has been holding a soup bowl or other hot course.
