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The art of the table: how to set and decorate a table?


L’art de la table est un ensemble de normes et de régles établies et admises par tous. Cet art est étroitement lié à la qualité de l’accueil, de la gastronomie et du confort .
A well-laid table is both attractive and functional. The art of the table has its mysteries, and it is easy to get lost in it. The positioning and use of glasses, cutlery and plates actually follow a simple logic. Master this art and learn how to set your table properly to welcome your guests.

How to set a table?

Here are some suggestions for setting the table:

Which table shape to choose?

There are many different shapes of dining room tables and each one has its own particularities. The different table shapes are as follows:

  • Rectangular dining room tables:

The rectangular shape dining table is the most famous and popular. The simple, straight lines are ideal for everyday dining as well as special events.

  • Round dining tables :

These dining rooms help to create a more intimate atmosphere. In a world of parallel lines, this type of table brings guests together and provides an attractive design.

  • Tables à manger ovales :

The oval-shaped dining table is suitable for small family meals as well as large dinners and events. Indeed, its curvature facilitates optimal use and promotes a sense of community.

It will give your dining table a beautiful look when placed in a spacious living/dining room. In addition, the lack of a corner in the oval dining table enlarges the space.

  • Square dining tables :

Rectangular designer dining table is the least successful table shape. Serving on large square tables is less comfortable. A square table, on the other hand, is ideal for long, narrow spaces, especially L-shaped ones.

 

Plates and cutlery

MaîThe art of the table also means choosing plates and cutlery with taste:

Plates

A presentation plate is traditionally placed on the table at a reception or party. This plate is intended to be used as an ornamental support. This presentation plate is not obligatory. Here are some tips:

  • Arrange the main course, the appetizer plate and the dessert plate on top of each other.
  • Never stack more than three dishes on top of each other (appetizer, main course and dessert).
  • Place the plates 2 cm from the edge of the table, with at least 30 to 40 cm between each piece.

Cutlery

  • Cutlery is placed with the knife on the right and the fork on the left. The soup spoon is placed on the outside, near the knife.
  • Cutlery should be placed in the order in which it will be used, from the outside in (the cutlery furthest from the plate is always the first to be used), with the sharp side of the knife facing the plate.
  • Dessert spoons and forks can also be placed on the table. They are placed next to the glasses, next to the plate and against it.
  • Water, red and white wine glasses should be placed on the right side of the chart, from largest to smallest volume, in the following order from the left: water, red wine and white wine.
  • If you are short of space, you can ask your guests in advance whether they prefer red or white wine so that you don't have to put two glasses on the table.
  • If you are serving a separate wine, liqueur or champagne for dessert, don't bring the glasses until you are ready to serve the dessert.
  • Napkins - At lunch, the napkin is placed on the plate; at dinner, it is placed on the left side. If you are hosting an upscale meal, linen napkins are preferable to paper napkins.
  • Consider placing several carafes of water so that guests can easily help themselves.
  • Arrange seasonings (salt, pepper, dressings, etc.), bread baskets and finger bowls are essential for a complete set-up.

Other important details for a perfect setting

  • place the napkins to the left of the plates, next to the cutlery.
  • veillez à ce qu’elles soient repassées à la perfection.
  • Also avoid using paper towels.
  • place a small dish filled with sliced bread or mini loaves of all shapes and flavours at the top left of the tray, this is sure to please your guests

What tablecloth should I use for my table?

The most important aspect of a beautiful reception table is the tablecloth. Choose a cloth tablecloth. The trend is not to use a tablecloth at all for less formal dining, especially if you have a good hardwood table. The table top is accented, and your reception table takes on a bohemian chic look.

Consider your plates and decorations as well as your tablecloth when making your choice. Stripes, tablecloth patterns and tableware embellishments should be avoided.

The easiest way is to use a plain tablecloth (white for example). It makes room for your table runner, as well as your plates and decorations.

Cloth napkins are also required. Napkins should be placed next to the forks, according to French custom.

You can also start folding the napkins by placing them in the middle of the dish. The possibilities are endless!

Don't neglect hygiene and cleanliness

To master the art of the table, it is essential that your tableware is clean. Hygiene is not to be neglected at all. Before you start setting your table, remember to give your living room or dining room a good scrubbing and airing.

Plates that have not been properly cleaned, glasses that are streaked and not properly rinsed, and damaged napkins or tablecloths give a bad impression.

Make sure everything is clean first. When it comes to glasses, use a small towel to clean them thoroughly. If they smell musty or have been saturated with laundry detergent, rinse them thoroughly by hand instead of putting them in the dishwasher. Rinse them thoroughly with a little lemon juice after using a little soap.

Prepare your table plan

The table plan should be thought out and prepared in advance, especially when dining with your family, to ensure a wonderful dinner is to prepare a table plan. Nothing is mandatory, it is a matter of organisation rather than etiquette. It eliminates any ambiguity when sitting at the table.

To do this, you need to take into account the tensions and affinities of each person to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience, so try to alternate men and women. Traditionally, newlyweds and newly engaged couples sit next to each other.

It is customary to separate them after one year of marriage. Finally, it is advisable to bring them together or have them dine first if there are young people present.

How to decorate your table?

The decoration is the final touch of a good reception table. Your mood and personality will be reflected in the table decor. In order not to disturb your guests and the service, opt for sobriety.

You can choose up to three different colours. Flowers and leaves are the latest trend in decoration ideas. Choose candlelight to create a warm atmosphere at your dinner party. Candles on the table add a distinctive touch of elegance and create a cosy, quiet atmosphere. The lights should match the tablecloth or the interior decoration.

Flowers can also be used to dress up the table. They can evoke a season and give a natural feel to the setting when placed in the middle of the table. However, make sure that the flowers you choose have a good aroma and are not allergenic, that the colors coordinate with the table and the tablecloth, and that it does not disturb your guests at the table.

You are free to decorate your table as you wish. Opt for a bohemian, classic or traditional style or on the contrary, be creative and original by breaking the rules. Trust yourself and above all enjoy yourself!