Master the Art of Table Settings

Casual / Basic Setting

Perfect for everyday meals and informal gatherings. This setting includes the essentials without being overly fussy.

• Dinner Plate – Centered in front of the chair
• Fork – Placed to the left of the plate
• Knife – Placed to the right, blade facing inward
• Spoon – Placed to the right of the knife
• Water Glass – Placed above the knife
• Napkin – Placed on the plate or to the left of the fork

Informal Setting

Ideal for relaxed dinner parties with multiple courses. Adds extra flatware and glassware for a polished look.

• Charger Plate – Serves as a base for the dinner plate
• Soup Bowl – Placed on the charger for soup course
• Salad Fork – Placed to the left of the dinner fork
• Dinner Knife & Soup Spoon – Arranged on the right
• Bread & Butter Plate – Placed above the forks
• Wine Glass – Placed to the right of the water glass

Formal Setting

Designed for elegant occasions, weddings, and fine dining. Follows traditional etiquette with multiple courses and glassware.

• Charger Plate – Remains until the main course
• Soup Spoon & Oyster Fork – Arranged from outside to inside
• Salad Knife & Dinner Knife – Placed on the right
• Dessert Flatware – Placed above the charger
• Multiple Glasses – Water, red wine, white wine, champagne
• Napkin – Placed on the charger or to the left of the forks

Dinnerware & Serveware

• Dinner Plates – The foundation of every setting
• Salad / Appetizer Plates – For first courses
• Soup Bowls & Cereal Bowls – For soups and desserts
• Chargers – Decorative base plates
• Platters & Serving Bowls – For family-style dining

Consider a complete dinnerware set for a cohesive look.

Flatware & Cutlery

• Dinner Forks – Used for the main course
• Salad Forks – Smaller fork for salads
• Dinner Knives – Sharp and sturdy
• Soup Spoons – Round-bowled spoons
• Teaspoons & Dessert Spoons – For coffee and desserts

Choose high-quality flatware that matches your style.

Glassware & Stemware

• Water Glasses – Tall tumblers or stemware
• Red Wine Glasses – Larger bowled glasses
• White Wine Glasses – Smaller bowled glasses
• Champagne Flutes – For toasts and celebrations
• Coffee / Tea Cups – For after-dinner beverages

Browse our glassware collection for every occasion.

Etiquette Essentials

• Work from the outside in when using flatware during a meal
• Place the napkin on your lap as soon as you are seated
• Wait for all guests to be served before beginning to eat
• Cut food into small pieces and bring it to your mouth, not your mouth to the food
• Place used flatware parallel to each other at the 4 o'clock position when finished

Style & Decor Ideas

• Seasonal Themes – Use colors and decor that match the season
• Lighting – Soft lighting creates a warm ambiance. Consider a dining room chandelier
• Napkin Folding – Impress guests with creative napkin folds
• Place Cards – Essential for formal events and seating arrangements
• Personal Touches – Add a small favor or note at each place setting

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Table – Leave room for food and conversation
• Misplaced Flatware – Forks always go on the left, knives and spoons on the right
• Dirty Glassware – Ensure all glassware is spotless
• Ignoring Theme – Keep the setting consistent with the occasion
• Too Many Centerpieces – Keep decor low enough for easy conversation