How to Properly Set a Beautiful Dining Table

Arranging a beautiful dining table is essential when hosting a dinner party. With the right collection of exquisite dinnerware and table linen, you can lift the mood of your guests. The dinner set is the primary attraction of the dining table. Choose a classic design and color combination that suits the table linens. Serve the food and beverages in elegant glassware. Add a personal touch to your dining table to finalize its look, such as a single rose or exquisite flower and candle arrangement. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Cover the length of the table with a clean tablecloth or runner. Place the tablecloth evenly lengthwise and across the table to space it evenly on the sides and ends of the dining table.

2

Set matching table mats in front of each chair at the table. Each guest should receive their own table mat. Space the table mats an equal distance apart.

3

Place a dining plate in the center of each table mat. The dining plates should be of good quality and matched in size and design.

4

Line three forks in a row on the left side of each dining plate. In order from left to right, set a salad fork, dinner fork and dessert fork on the table mat.

5

Arrange three knives on the right side of each dining plate, opposite the forks. Turn the blades of the knives towards the dining plate. From right to left, set a fork for the salad course, first course and main meal.

6

Place a dessert spoon to the right of the three knives. Set a soup spoon to the right of the dessert spoon on the table mat.

7

Set a soup or salad bowl in the center of each dining plate. The soup or salad bowls should be of the same design or color scheme of the dining plates if available.

8

Place a bread plate at the top-left side of each dining plate. Set a butter knife horizontally across each bread plate.

9

Set a coffee cup at the top-right corner of each dining plate. Place a glass for water directly behind the coffee cup or mug. Set four additional glasses to the right of the water glass. From right to left, the glasses are intended for red wine, white wine, sherry and champagne.

10

Neatly fold a napkin for each place setting. Each napkin should be placed to the left of the forks.