Properly Placed Table Settings

If you are anything like me, I like to have a properly set table but can never seem to remember which fork goes where and which glass sits above the knife and which sits above the spoon. I know there are others who are just as unsure of themselves as they set their Holiday table settings so I have decided to write a quick reference for everyone to use this Thanksgiving.

1. Start by placing the dinner plate in the center of each setting, placing any smaller plates or soup bowls on top of the largest plate. You can also use a pretty charger under the largest plate to create a dramatic setting for each place. Chargers are for decoration only and should not be used for food service.

2. Silverware will sit on both sides of the plate(s), starting with the dinner fork on the left, closest to the plate and then the salad to left of the dinner fork. On the right side of the plate, starting from the inside, closest to the plate is largest serving knife, (rounded side facing left), followed by a smaller knife (same position), then soup spoon. Above the plates, place the dessert fork, prongs facing right, then the dessert spoon above the fork, round side facing left.

3. The Napkin is placed to the left of the furthest fork. You may also place the napkin under the forks if space is an issue.

4. Bread and Butter plate are placed above the forks about 1-2 inches, if you have the space. You may also place a butter knife across the top of the bread plate.

5. Glasses are next. The largest glass will be for water and it should be placed above the largest knife setting (a good 3 inches above the knife and slightly to the left). Next place the white wine glass to the right and slightly below the water glass followed by the red wine glass, again slightly below and to the right of the white wine glass. Once you sit down, if your guest is not drinking wine, you may remove one or both of the wine glasses to make more room. This is also a polite gesture in the event that your guest does not want to draw attention to the fact that they are not drinking alcohol with their meal.

This easy guide should help everyone as they begin their Holiday feast preparations. This is also a preparation that you can do days in advance so that you are not rushing to make a pretty setting the day of your meal. A properly placed setting as well as a fabulous centerpiece will get many compliments. Many people notice the extra touch and appreciate the time you have taken to create a lovely setting for everyone to enjoy.