Different Table Settings

When entertaining, many guests take notice of how the table is set. Using the proper setting according to the meal makes a good impression and shows good table etiquette. There are basic rules to follow; for example, the forks typically go to the left of the plate and the knives and spoons to the right. Knowing where to properly place utensils, plates, bowls and glasses helps your guests enjoy their meal; everything will be within reach. Does this Spark an idea?

Breakfast Setting

The breakfast table setting includes a luncheon plate with a cereal bowl centered on top. To the left of the plate are first a fork and then a folded napkin. The napkin is positioned with the folded edge toward the plate. Above the napkin and fork is a bread and butter plate with a butter knife lying diagonally across the edge of the plate. The handle of the knife is on the right and the edge of the knife is facing the guest. To the right of the plate are first a knife and then a teaspoon, face up. The edge of the knife faces the plate. Above the knife and spoon and slightly to the right are positioned a cup and saucer with a teaspoon lying on the right edge of the saucer. Above the knife is a water glass and to its right, a juice glass.

Lunch Setting

The lunch setting is similar to that for a breakfast setting with a few additions and changes. Instead of a cereal bowl centered on the luncheon plate, there is a soup bowl. The fork, napkin, butter plate with knife, the right knife and teaspoon are positioned as in the breakfast setting. However, with a lunch setting, there is also a soup spoon to the right of the teaspoon. Instead of a water glass and juice glass above the knife and spoon, there is a water goblet and to its right, a wine glass. The cup and saucer with teaspoon are not included in this setting.

Family Dinner Setting

This setting includes a dinner plate with a folded napkin placed on top. To the left of the plate is first a dinner fork and to its left, a salad plate. Above the fork and salad plate is a bread and butter plate with a butter knife lying diagonally across its edge. The handle of the knife is on the right and the edge of the knife is facing the guest. To the right of the plate is first a knife and then a teaspoon, face up. The cutting edge of the knife faces the plate. Above the knife and slightly to the left is a water goblet.

Formal Dinner Setting

The formal dinner setting is similar to the lunch setting with a few additions and changes. Instead of a luncheon plate, a dinner plate is used. To the left of the plate are three forks. First is the dessert fork, next the dinner fork and then the salad fork. To the left of the forks is a folded napkin. A bread and butter plate with a butter knife lying diagonally across it is positioned above the forks. The utensils to the right of the plate and the placement of the water goblet are similar to the lunch setting. In addition, there is a red wine glass to the right of the water goblet and next to it, a white wine glass.