There are generally accepted rules for table setting, which are not so difficult to learn, and it will be pleasant to surprise and please loved ones. In this article we will talk about table setting at home, consider illustrative examples and schemes.

There are many types of serving: classic, rustic, Scandinavian and a number of others.

Breakfast

A beautifully laid table can turn breakfast into a small celebration.

Appliances are added and removed depending on the cooked dishes

Start with a tablecloth. It should be clean, ironed and suitable for the interior in style. For breakfast, bright and muted colors are acceptable.

Then the plates are arranged. At a distance of 2.5 cm from the edge of the table, a serving plate is placed, on it - the main plate, and then a deep bowl for porridge or cereal. A dessert plate with a butter knife is placed diagonally to the left, and egg holders on small saucers are placed on it.

The next step is appliances. To the left of the main plate, put a fork with the cloves up, to the right - a knife (with the tip inward), a tablespoon, and then a teaspoon. Dessert devices are placed above the plate, parallel to the edge of the table.

Table setting at home. simple breakfast

Next - cups and glasses. A cup for a hot drink is placed on a saucer and placed diagonally to the right of the main plate. Glasses are placed a little further. Their number is determined as needed. The correct order is a glass for water, juice, then milk.

A coffee pot, a milk jug, sockets with jam and saucers with fruit slices are placed in the center of the table. Granulated sugar is served in a sugar bowl with a special spoon; tongs are placed for refined sugar. Butter dishes, plow bowls and snacks are also placed here.

Finish serving with napkins and decor. Cloth napkins are placed on or next to a snack plate, paper napkins are placed only in napkin holders. Small vases with flowers are placed in the center of the table - they create a special mood.

An unusually laid table will be a pleasant surprise for your household and will certainly not let them miss breakfast.

Dinner

Table setting for dinner involves a plain tablecloth in muted colors or with a soft pattern.

It is reasonable to “bring” several tablecloths in the house: a small one, for a large table, for a table on outdoors(veranda), "children's" oilcloth tablecloth

The plates are stacked on top of each other in the following order: serving plate, main plate, snack plate, soup plate (or bowl). A bread plate is placed diagonally to the left.

To the right of the serving plate put a hot knife (point inward), behind it - a tablespoon and soup spoon (convex side down). On the left is a place for a fork (cloves up). If several dishes are served, put 2 or 3 pairs of cutlery. They are placed in accordance with the order of the dishes: closer to the plate - cutlery for the main course, then for salads and appetizers, further from the plate - cutlery for dishes that will be served first (snacks and soups).

A dessert spoon and a fork are placed above the main plate, parallel to the edge of the table, with a gap of 1 cm - a spoon with a handle to the right, a fork to the left. A butter knife is placed on a bread plate, handle to the right, point to the edge of the table. For all dishes that will be served on common plates, tongs are served, for sauces - spoons.

A serving plate is optional for an everyday table. Some serving styles allow for its absence (in the photo, the serving plate is the bottom, pink)

Glasses for wine and water are placed diagonally to the right of the main plate (behind the appliances) in accordance with the order in which drinks are served: closer to the plate - a glass for water, then for an aperitif, for the main drink, at the end - for strong alcohol. A cup for a hot drink is placed a little lower.

Breadbaskets and gravy boats are placed along the edges of the table. A tureen, hot dishes, salad bowls and snacks are placed in the center. Wines are served in bottles (pre-opened), other drinks - in jugs or decanters.

Finish serving for dinner with napkins and flower arrangements in the center of the table.

Table setting at home depends entirely on the menu and the order in which dishes are served. Everyday lunch does not require all the subtleties, just 1 set of cutlery, snack and soup plates and 1-2 glasses.

If you will be serving dishes that need to be eaten with your hands, be sure to provide bowls of water for washing your hands and put enough napkins

It is not necessary to set the table according to the requirements of Michelin restaurants. Observe the arrangement, choose beautiful dishes, do it the way you like

Dinner

Dinner is served the same way. The table is covered with a well-ironed tablecloth: for a formal dinner, they choose a plain one, for a family or friendly one - a tablecloth with a pattern or a border around the edges.

You can replace the serving plate with a round mat, which will perform a decorative function

You can turn the glasses upside down if you are setting the table in advance or on fresh air. This is what street restaurants do.

On the serving plate put the main, snack and a plate for a fish dish. Diagonally to the left is a place for a bread and dessert plate (it is served directly with dessert and fruit). For a home dinner in a narrow circle, 1-2 plates are enough, for example, the main one and the diner.

The number of devices is determined by the number of dishes. The order is the same: on the right is a table knife for hot dishes, followed by fish and snack knives. A tablespoon is placed above the main plate (if there is dessert, then the spoon is moved to the right knife, and dessert devices are placed above the plate). Forks are placed on the left: closer to the plate, a hot fork, then a fish and snack fork. All dishes and snacks that are not served in portions are served with tongs and spoons.

In most countries, at official dinners, the following order of changing dishes is adopted: appetizers, soup (broth), fish dish, meat dish, dessert, fruit, coffee. Dishes are changed every 15-20 minutes.

Glasses and glasses for drinks are placed to the right of the main plate in the order in which drinks are served: for water, for an aperitif, for wines, for spirits. The glass for the main drink remains on the table during the entire meal, the rest can be removed when changing dishes.

For everyday dinner and meeting with friends, 1-3 glasses are enough: for water, for wine or beer, for strong alcohol. A beer glass is placed on a stand to protect the tablecloth from beer foam.

Dishes with hot dishes, salads and snacks are placed in the center of the table, and a bread box, gravy boats, jugs and bottles of drinks are placed closer to the edge of the table.

Napkins for dinner can be decorated with special rings or figuredly folded.

Table setting for dinner is completed with a flower arrangement and candles. Candles should be in special candlesticks or on stands

You can go beyond candles, figurines and flowers - make nameplates for each invited guest

Festive table setting

For the festive table, a classic full serving is used.

They pick up an elegant tablecloth, combine several options in contrasting colors, or complement the serving with fabric runners.

For the solemn table setting at home, a festive service is used. On a serving plate put the main, diner, then a fish plate and soup. For cream soup, a deep soup bowl is served, for broth - a bowl. Diagonally to the left is a bread plate, a dessert plate (it is served directly with dessert and fruit).

The number of appliances depends on the menu. Festive, as a rule, includes a complete set: a hot knife, a fish knife, a tablespoon, a snack knife, a soup spoon and an oyster fork (this is the only type of fork that can be placed on the right). Forks are laid out on the left: for hot, for fish and for snacks.

Scheme for serving a gala lunch or dinner. The point of the knives should be directed towards the plate, the forks should be with the teeth up, the spoons with the convex side down

Cutlery is arranged according to following principle: the appliance farthest from the plate is for the first course, the appliance closest to the plate is for the last course

No more than 3 pairs of cutlery for main courses and snacks are placed near the plate. Devices are placed at a distance of 0.5-1 cm from each other. If it is necessary to serve the 4th pair, it is wrapped in a napkin and placed on the edge of the serving plate.

When laying out devices, consider the menu. For example, if there is no fish on the table, there is no need to put a knife for it.

To the right of the main plate, glasses are placed in the order in which the dishes are served. They can be placed in 2 rows, in a semicircle or diagonally in a row. The distance between the glasses is about 1 cm. As a rule, they first put a glass for water, then for champagne, wine, then - glasses for cognac and glasses for other strong alcohol.

Table setting at home involves the correct arrangement of hot dishes and snacks.

Hot food is served in an appropriate dish (duckling bowl, etc.) and placed in the center of the table. Festive serving necessarily includes a tureen - it is placed to the right of the hostess. Appliances for serving hot dishes are placed on a saucer nearby, wrapped in a cloth napkin.

Then snacks are arranged: meat is served on round dishes, fish on oval ones. Next put salad bowls, bowls, herring and gravy boats. Breadbaskets and seasonings should stand at the edges. If the table is large, they put several pepper pots, gravy boats, etc. Drinks in jugs and decanters are placed along the edges of the table. Alcohol is served in pre-opened bottles. Champagne and some wines are placed in ice buckets.

When serving desserts, large dishes with cakes and pastries, vases of fruit are placed in the center of the table, sugar bowls, milk jars, bowls and sockets are closer to the edges.

At the end, lay out napkins and decorate the table festive decor. It can be flowers, candles, figurines and themed decorations. Seasonal flowers, leaves, fruits, wreaths, Christmas decorations, cones, ribbons, all kinds of figurines and other decorations. In solemn occasions, they decorate the backs of chairs and a chandelier above the table. Everything depends on fantasy.

When preparing flower arrangements for table decoration, avoid flowers with strong smell– some guests may be sensitive to fragrances

Children's table

Serving a children's table has its own characteristics. The main thing to focus on is safety, reasonable approach and, of course, beauty.

First of all, decide on the theme of the holiday. Create a beautiful and fabulous atmosphere. Give preference bright colors, use for decoration Balloons, party hats, frilled stick figures, ribbons, confetti and other decorations.

The serving order is the same as for an adult table: you need to start with a tablecloth. It is wiser to use not a tablecloth, but a beautiful oilcloth - it is easier to put it in order after children's pranks. The edges of the oilcloth should be higher than the seats.

Crockery and cutlery should be selected based on the age of the children: for the smallest, paper and plastic tableware, for older children - impact-resistant glass. Cutlery must be safe.

To make children feel comfortable at the table, it is not cluttered with dishes. 1-2 plates are enough: a snack and a deep bowl. Cutlery for children is placed to the right of the plate, but if a knife can be used by age, the table is served according to the standard scheme.

Instead of glasses, use wide, stable glasses, place them closer to the center of the table. Don't forget to stock up on tissues and paper towels.

Since children cannot sit at the table for a long time and will “bite”, it is better to serve snacks, cuts, canapes and tartlets. Can be cooked hot baked potato, nuggets, spring rolls, mini sandwiches and other similar dishes. For serving, use multi-tiered coasters, dishes and deep bowls.

Involve the whole family in table setting and together create beautiful decoration. This will make the holiday unforgettable and give a lot of vivid impressions.

Despite the complexity, table setting at home can be a pleasant and creative process, if not only diligence and patience are invested in this activity, but also ingenuity and imagination are shown.

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Graduated from the author's Physics and Mathematics Lyceum and art school. Graduated economic Education in the direction of "innovation management". Freelancer. Married, actively travels. He is interested in Buddhist philosophy, enjoys transsurfing and loves Mediterranean cuisine.

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It takes ~3 minutes to read

Have you ever wondered what is the main sign of the attention of the hostess of the house to her guests? Of course, this is the correct table setting. Unfortunately, not all housewives know how to do this. Many people think that a beautiful table setting takes a lot of time. However, this opinion is erroneous. Knowing and observing certain rules, you can create a festive mood not only for the holidays, but also on weekdays.
To create an unusual table decoration, you can attract household members. Most likely, they will like this activity, and you will save time and effort.

It is wrong to assume that in ordinary life you can not bother, and all the difficulties of decoration are used exclusively for public holidays. Psychologists claim that appearance dishes and the table as a whole depends on the mood and taste perception of food.
Table setting at home differs from the solemn one in a smaller number of appliances and decor details.

  1. Take into service that coaster plates are a must. Using them, you will avoid staining the tablecloth. Agree that sometimes it is very difficult to remove borscht stains from it.
  2. It is not recommended to replace the tablecloth with oilcloth. To make the table look "smart", sometimes it is enough to lay a checkered cloth on it. Of course, everything should look harmonious and the tablecloth should be combined with the overall interior of the kitchen.
  3. If your menu includes a first course, then the presence of deep plates is a must. It is much easier to walk around with a pot and pour the broth for everyone than to rush around with plates.
  4. Under a deep plate should be a container for a side dish.
  5. In order not to constantly run for forks and spoons, provide them in the right amount in advance.


Why is table setting necessary?

Everyone will agree that it is much more pleasant to eat at a chicly served table. If everything is properly organized, then the daily meal turns into a holiday.
It is not necessary to cook gourmet dishes, you can use ordinary inexpensive products. The very idea of ​​\u200b\u200bdecorating a dining table is important.
Serving planning for specific meals
Introduce new traditions into your family. Due to lack of time in modern world Not every family can afford joint meals. In this case, you can limit yourself to one common reception food that will take place in the evening.
Not only for a festive meal, but also for a simple dinner, you can arrange the serving in an original way. Children will be happy to help you with this, as a rule, they are very fond of arranging plates and laying out napkins.
At this table you can chat with all family members. The atmosphere of comfort is conducive to confidential conversations, everyone can talk about their problems or achievements. Such a tradition will bring a piece of joy into everyday life. After everyone gets used to gathering at home for dinner, you can start introducing gatherings on weekends into family traditions.

Table setting rules

  1. You need to use the same devices.
  2. Each dish should have its own serving.
  3. When arranging objects, it must be taken into account that about 80 cm of space must be allocated for each person. This condition will make guests feel comfortable.
  4. Plates are placed in the middle of the allocated place, at a distance of two cm from the edge.
  5. When planning the serving of several dishes, deep dishes are placed on a flat surface.
  6. At a distance of 10 cm to the left of the person, plates for sweets or bread are placed.
  7. Spoons, forks and knives are placed with the tip up, on the right - knives, on the left - forks. If dessert is to be served, the soup spoon is placed above the plate.
  8. Glasses and glasses should be placed on the right. If alcohol and water are served at the same time, then the container that should be combined with the first course is placed closer.
  9. All utensils must be clean and free of stains and streaks. Before serving, it must be wiped with a dry towel.

How to choose the right tablecloth

A mandatory attribute is a tablecloth. She can be like everyday use, and for the solemn. What recommendations do experts give when choosing a tablecloth?

  • for a banquet, a tablecloth made of natural fabrics, preferably white, is used;
  • for everyday dinner or lunch, you can use an acrylic attribute, it should fit the shape of the table;
  • it is important that the tablecloth is of suitable length, it should cover the entire surface, and the edges should hang down by 20-25 cm.

Required condition!!! Any tablecloth must be clean. Therefore, you need to have several options available.

Plate arrangement

So, the tablecloth is laid. Now you need to arrange the plates. The scheme is very simple. There should be a decorative plate in the very center, it should not be too close to the edge. A plate for snacks is placed on it. If there are liquid dishes on the menu, then a deep container is also placed on a decorative plate. It is important to note that when serving puree soup, a soup bowl is served, and when serving broth, a cup must be served. The bread plate is placed to the left of the decorative one.

Location of devices

Serving provides a certain location of all appliances. Everything must comply with the rules of etiquette:

  • appliances should be placed on the sides of the plates, in some cases they are placed on top;
  • there should be forks to the left of the main plate;
  • knives are placed on the right, their blades should be directed towards the plate;
  • on top of the plate should be a spoon for soup;
  • a dessert spoon is placed on the right side, it should enclose a row of knives.

Important!!! The utensils that will be used first should be closest to the plate. Appliances for first courses should be the most distant. It should be borne in mind that all devices must be freely available for use.

How to choose glasses

For serving a festive table, it is very important to choose the right glasses. For each drink, a certain type of wine glasses or glasses is provided.
For red wines, cognac and brandy, "pot-bellied" glasses are used. And for wines from white varieties, small glasses are used. The tallest or narrowest glasses are for champagne. For juices and water, glasses are served that are intended for cocktails.

Use of napkins

How beautiful to set the table? One of essential elements decorations in the design of any holiday or banquet are napkins. A lot of techniques have been invented, following which you can create an exquisite and unusual composition from them. When choosing napkins, you need to pay attention to the color. You can buy napkins of the same color with holiday candles.
Napkins need to be folded so that after unfolding they do not look too wrinkled. This decoration is placed on a plate for snacks. Using napkin figurines, you can make your table very stylish.

Table setting for dinner

  1. Festive dinner with the family. Arranged on the table beautiful candles and plates, stocked with wine and snacks. Later, you can serve a hot dish, dessert and fruit. Remove the glasses and replace them with cups and saucers.
  2. How beautiful to set the table for romantic dinner? A small table is laid, at which two people sit opposite each other. Candles and flowers are a must. A dark-colored tablecloth will add a special flair to the romantic mood.
  3. For a themed dinner. You can serve dishes prepared from products that are grown in your country house. The table is decorated with compositions of vegetables. All dishes are simple, prepared from natural products.
  4. For dinner with a friend. No extra details. Delicate tablecloth, the minimum number of appliances, light meals. Perhaps cold cuts or seafood.
  5. Dinner for friends. Friends come to visit for simple informal communication. So forget about solemnity, everything should be simple. But of course cook some delicious meals


Table setting for a children's event

Organizing a children's event is always a special concern for parents. It is necessary to take care not only about the deliciousness of the food and the beauty of the presentation, but also about the safety of the children.
How to set the table for a children's holiday?

  1. In order for the children to feel like adults, set a separate table for them.
  2. It is necessary to withstand the design in one scale. It is better if you pick up any cartoon theme. It must be present in everything.
  3. Disposable tableware is a real find for parents who need to organize a children's party. Just don't think that we are talking about simple disposable plates. In stores you can buy very beautiful dishes made of durable plastic or special cardboard. Such dishes are very practical, because they do not break. She is very beautiful, so the kids will be delighted with her.
  4. Do not cook a variety of salads and meat dishes. After all, this is a children's holiday, and children do not like to eat this at a party. Surprise them with beautiful buffet appetizers, this is exactly what they will like.


Benefits of proper table setting

If your family gets used to eating in a cozy and beautiful environment, then food will be a real pleasure. Children will grow up cultured, knowing the place for each item on the table. Evening gatherings at a beautifully laid table will unite your family. And this family tradition will be passed down from generation to generation.

Table setting is a sign good manners and the hospitality of the hostess, so it is very important that the set table abounds not only with delicious and steaming dishes, but also with beautiful elements, correctly laid out knives and forks.

This fascinating, and certainly creative activity will be discussed in this article. Here you will find recommendations for the correct layout of cutlery, as well as a photo of serving in different styles and colors.

Since ancient times, eating was not just an everyday activity. Gathering with a company at a large table, a seemingly simple dinner became something of a holiday.

At the table, they did not just eat food prepared in advance, people talked, shared news and their thoughts. As a result, such a concept as table setting was born.

The correct and beautiful arrangement of appliances and dishes gave the festive table special kind, and with the advent of the first rules of table etiquette, proper table setting has become an integral part of any feast.

Moreover, in normal home conditions, it's not even about etiquette. In fact, it’s just nice when order and a special atmosphere reign on the table.

But let's get down to the basic rules that will help you decorate the holiday table.

What you need to know about table setting

First of all, make sure that all utensils and cutlery are clean. To do this, first, without exception, all devices should be wiped with a warm and damp towel, and then polished dry with a dry one. Make sure there are no water stains on cutlery and crockery.

The tablecloth must be carefully ironed. Its edges should hang from the table by 25-30 centimeters, so that the corners hide the table legs a little. Many housewives, in fear for the tablecloth, cover it with oilcloth on top, however, according to the rules of table setting and etiquette, this is unacceptable if you receive guests.

The number of cutlery on the table at each plate in different situations may be different. It all depends on the dishes that will be served during the meal.

Well, the last "golden" rule - the location and type of devices for each guest should be completely the same.

Proper table setting

Take a look at the following image:


The photo shows a classic table setting according to European etiquette. In the picture, as an example, all types of cutlery are laid out. Of course, you most likely won’t need the whole “set”, so looking at this picture, you can place the appliances in the same way, but leaving only the necessary on the table (depending on the dishes).

For example, for an ordinary classic Russian dinner, it is enough to leave a pie plate for bread and butter, a spoon for the first course, a fork for the main course, a table knife, a decorative and soup plate, a glass of water. In each case, something may change, for example, if there is a dessert on the dinner menu, it is worth adding the appropriate appliances to the table.

Types of napkins and their location

Napkins are one of the most important accessories on the festive table. There are two main types of napkins - fabric and paper. Cloth napkins (large in size) are usually designed to be placed on the guest's lap (to prevent food from getting on clothes).

Paper napkins are usually used directly for eating, and they should be located in the center of the table, so that they are accessible to everyone. If the table is large, place the napkins in several places so that everyone at the table has direct access to them.

By the way, napkins can be placed on the table both in an ordinary napkin holder, and making original figures from them. Below in the figure, you can see the four most common variants of napkin figurines. As you can see in the photo, a beautiful table setting largely depends on the appearance of the napkins and their color.


By the way, if the feast does not involve a first course, then a beautifully folded napkin should be placed on the plate of each guest, but remember that in this case all napkins should be the same, and in the center of the table there must be a supply of them at the rate of 2-3 napkins per guest .

Table setting - photo with examples

Above in the photo, you saw classic version table setting, however, it is absolutely not necessary to strictly follow these rules if more than interesting ideas. You can decorate the table perfectly different ways, the main thing is that the main devices are located in right places, and the rest - at the discretion of the hostess.

Separately, we celebrate such a holiday as New Year. Everyone's favorite feasts can be not only tasty, but also beautiful.

The ancient art of decorating a solemn feast, arranging dishes for a dinner party or a family celebration, the ability to cover it beautifully, serve it festively is called table setting. It is based on a set of well-established rules, customs, including the order of laying out cutlery and serving dishes, recommendations for choosing jewelry, stylish elements decor for a sophisticated look. How to decorate a table for guests or husband?

What is table setting

The correct arrangement of plates, salad bowls and dishes, as well as the layout of cutlery, napkins and other trifles necessary during the meal - all this is serving. It also includes the choice of tablecloths, napkins and other decorative elements. Serving is of three types: preliminary, banquet and "Bistro". How they differ and what are the features of the procedure - all this is interesting to know not only for the regulars of restaurants, but also for ordinary housewives, because then their celebrations will be decorated in an interesting way.

Serving types

The first variety is the simplest. A served table with it involves a partial arrangement of dishes and cutlery for serving dishes that are first on the menu. At the same time, in the process of changing dishes, the entire set of dishes is replaced. Pre-serving includes:

  • table-knife;
  • fork;
  • a teaspoon;
  • pie plate;
  • objects placed in the center (flowers, candlestick, porcelain figurines);
  • glass for red wine;
  • wine glass;
  • salt shaker, pepper shaker;
  • a napkin made of fabric without a pattern.

Banquet serving is a one-time arrangement of plates, cutlery and decorative elements. Devices that are used in this type of serving:

  • snack utensils (knife, fork);
  • soup spoon;
  • pepper box;
  • bread plate;
  • fish utensils;
  • a plate for pies or other pastries;
  • dessert spoon;
  • soup plate;
  • butter knife;
  • saucer (oval or round);
  • glassware;
  • cloth or silk napkins (rectangular or square).

"Bistro" is simple variety arrangements for informal, non-formal occasions, a modern everyday option for lunch or breakfast. It is used in restaurants, hotels, hostels, self-service canteens and barbecues, establishments where they serve their own staff. Appliances, their location depend on the specific menu, the style of the institution, the average cost of the dish. It is necessary to cover the countertop with fabric white tablecloths, to serve paper napkins.

Table setting rules

Table decoration, especially festive, both in restaurants and cafes, and at home, should be carried out in accordance with generally accepted standards. Proper serving festive table sets the tone for the holiday. If you make a mistake when choosing dishes, you can ruin a gala dinner on the occasion of an event or an important business lunch. According to etiquette, certain napkins, glasses should be used - the choice depends on the type of meal (festive, for receiving guests, a romantic date).

Tablecloth

The general tone of the event can be set by the tablecloth. For a solemn meal, it should be snow-white, for simpler meals, cream or ivory is allowed. Regardless of the event, matter must be immaculately clean and ironed. Delicate decorative elements are allowed: lace, silk ribbons, perforation. Traditionally, the edges should hang from the edge of the countertop by 25-30 cm. In French and Italian restaurants, touching the edges of the floor is allowed. The material of the tablecloth should be natural: silk or cotton.

Types of plates

There are approximately 35 types of serving plates, but only about 5-6 are used universally. The rules of etiquette stipulate that the plates must be from the same set or at least made in the same style. The number and type of plates served depends on what dishes will be served and how many people are participating in the gala dinner. The main dishes used in restaurants are:

  • soup;
  • a plate or bowl for mustard;
  • herring;
  • large and small flat plates;
  • meat dishes;
  • dessert shallow and deep;
  • pie.

Cutlery for table setting

To the right of the plate is a soup spoon, immediately behind it on the outer edge is a fork and a knife for a snack (meat), the last one is a tea or coffee spoon. Cutlery for the main course is placed immediately next to the plate, and the dessert spoon is located behind the plate. A small butter knife is located on a patty plate. Devices should be polished with boiling water or special tools to a shine. In some restaurants, a special napkin is placed under the cutlery.

Glasses

Classics are two glasses: for wine and champagne. Other varieties for alcoholic beverages are agreed in advance, if necessary, add dishes for strong alcohol (glasses, glasses for whiskey, liquor). Glasses are arranged in this order: for red wine, for white wine, for champagne, and then dishes for spirits in the order of its serving. In addition, a separate glass (glass) is provided for drinking water or juice, it is placed on the left.

Napkins

If there is a problem of budget table decoration, then serving napkins will help to solve it. Napkins are one of the most important accessories on a festive dining table. There are two main types for serving - fabric and paper:

  • Cloth napkins are larger, square, made of linen fabric. Designed for kneeling or for decoration.
  • Paper napkins are used directly during meals, and they should be in the center of the countertop - so that it is convenient to use them. In addition, they should be available to every person sitting at the table. Napkins are placed in a napkin holder or in the form of figures as a decoration. Paper napkins at official receptions and celebrations should be plain, without a pattern.

You can beautifully arrange dishes for lunch or dinner at home. To do this, you need to buy a tablecloth, a set of cutlery and crockery. For home version servings do not have to be all, you should proceed only from your own needs and food preferences. To set the table for one person you need:

  • tablecloth, napkins (paper or fabric);
  • deep and flat plates;
  • table, tea, dessert spoon and fork;
  • table-knife;
  • a tea pair (jam outlet), a glass of wine;
  • water glass.

For dinner

Procedure:

  • The tablecloth must be spread on the table, put a flat plate, on top of it is deep.
  • To the right and left you need to put the cutlery for the main course, followed by snack bars.
  • Put a tea or coffee spoon in front of the plate.
  • A tea pair or a glass of wine is placed on the top right.
  • If desired, you can decorate the table with fabric napkins, flowers in vases or candles.

dining table

Recommendations on how to properly set the table for lunch for one person do not differ from those for serving for dinner. With the exception that for dinner the table is not decorated with anything other than napkins or flowers. In addition, instead of a white tablecloth for dinner, you can use special plastic or silicone substrates - they are more practical, they are easily washed from food and spilled drinks.

For guests

During lunch, serving for guests takes place in a similar way, only the number of cutlery and plates on the table changes. Decorations are almost never used, the tablecloth can be replaced decorative coasters for hot meals. If dinner is provided for guests, then light snacks and alcohol (wine, liquor) should be served, the coasters should be replaced with a white tablecloth.

For the holiday

Making your own dinner for the holiday is a laborious task, because. many dishes are served at the celebrations, there is a large number of of people. For the holiday, the table is decorated with vases with flowers, fruits. At home, you can not follow the rules regarding the arrangement of plates and cutlery, but only use a tablecloth, napkins and make sure that each guest feels comfortable.

Beautiful table setting

Vases with flowers, satin or silk ribbons, porcelain figurines of angels, napkin rings are used as decoration. Creating a festive atmosphere contribute to: air balloons, serpentine, elegant tablecloths. Decorations for serving are selected in accordance with the holiday - a wedding, anniversary or a romantic dinner. Main decorative elements- tablecloth and cloth napkins.

classical

Traditionally, for an ordinary lunch or dinner, the countertop is decorated with flowers or napkin rings. With a classic serving, the main condition is the impeccable cleanliness of the tablecloth, napkins and cutlery, dishes for spices. To beautifully set the table, but at the same time avoid excessive solemnity, you can pick up napkins of bright saturated colors - such a move will help brighten up a boring meal.

Banquet

Decorating a table for a mass banquet is not an easy task. In this case, they try to make all the decorative elements in the same style or color. They are selected according to the type of banquet: anniversary, corporate or other event. More often use bright napkins, fresh or artificial flowers. First of all, the wishes of people ordering a gala dinner are taken into account.

Wedding

When serving a wedding dinner, the emphasis is on places for the newlyweds, which are decorated with symbols of love (hearts, roses, posters with wishes, swans figurines). Places for the newlyweds are marked with separate glasses (decorated or tied with ribbons). A wedding banquet is served with white dishes with a gold or silver border. The tablecloth spreads only snow-white, symbolizing the purity of the feelings of the newlyweds.

Table setting for two

To create a romantic atmosphere, when serving dinner for two, it is customary to use candles, a basket in which fruit, alcohol (wine or champagne) are beautifully folded. The tablecloth is chosen scarlet or white. The dishes are placed opposite each other, but in such a way that the person sitting opposite can be reached without effort by hand. For two, they do not cover a lot of dishes and cutlery, the emphasis here is on romance.

The main problem when decorating a meal on a round tabletop is a small space, so the meal is served only with the necessary cutlery, deep and flat plates, a knife, a fork for the main course, a glass of wine. The rest is served as needed. In the center they put a vase with a bouquet of flowers, a dessert or a bottle of wine, decorated with a red or black napkin.

For a birthday

Table decoration for a birthday implies an emphasis on the solemnity of the event. Serving dishes, competent selection of decorations, including decorating desserts, will help with this. How beautiful to set the table? It all depends on the personality of the birthday person:

  1. Children's table for a birthday, you can arrange using various toys, cardboard or paper cartoon characters.
  2. A young girl or an aged woman traditionally uses fresh flowers, original desserts, vases with exotic fruits, napkins, rosettes, and stylish dishes made of multi-colored glass to decorate a solemn meal.
  3. It is customary for men to decorate a festive lunch or dinner laconically, with the help of beautiful contrasting napkins and tablecloths, while the appliances are classic, the dishes are white.

Serving a festive sweet table

For an event with a lot of sweets or a holiday that involves only the presence of desserts, it is not customary to use decorative elements. Multi-tiered plates, pyramids, special coasters for cake pops or muffins are used. It's better if everything is in one color scheme. If you use additional festive decoration, then the design will turn out to be pockmarked, overly pretentious and tasteless.

Table setting ideas

To surprise family and guests at celebrations or during regular meals, the following serving options can be offered:

  1. Spring. The tabletop is covered with a tablecloth, fresh flowers and herbs are used as decorations. A linen napkin is placed on a plate, and a flower is placed on top. If desired, you can use a green tablecloth and decorations in the form of insects (May beetles, ladybugs). Fresh lettuce leaves are served at the beginning of the meal.
  2. Decoration for tea. Tea pairs are placed on a tablecloth of any color, decorated with bright napkins. You can use spectacular scissors for cookies and small desserts (marshmallows, sweets, muffins). In the center of the composition there is a large teapot, around it are rosettes with jam and honey.
  3. Breakfast at the cottage. The tablecloth is either not used at all, or linen in a natural gray color. Used as decoration ceramic tableware, enameled bowls with flowers in water.
  4. Hen-party. The tablecloth is used in fresh, bright colors (pink, coral, blue). Dishes are placed in a minimal amount (glasses, wine glasses, champagne or martini glasses), the main area is occupied by desserts, snacks, drinks. You can decorate the surface with flowers, decorative beads.
  5. Children's holiday. They use oilcloth napkins of bright colors, plain or with the image of cartoon characters or animals, the entire surface of the countertop is occupied by sweets: sweets, cakes, fruits, cakes.

Video

There is no hostess who would not like to surprise the invited guests with her culinary dishes and feast. But in order for the guests to be completely satisfied with the event, the hostess must be able to sort and prepare the home table beautifully and correctly. Properly placed cutlery and treats produce maximum effect on guests. What serving rules should any person know, as well as how to set the table?

Proper table setting is not only the arrangement of tableware, but also its decoration and design. Types of jewelry and dishes mainly depend on the upcoming holiday (birthday, wedding, family breakfast, lunch, dinner, etc.).

Basic rules of etiquette:

To quickly and easily cover the home table with a tablecloth, you need to place the folded fabric on the surface of the table, and then, lifting it by the edges, quickly lower your hands. Thanks to such actions, the fabric will lie evenly and beautifully.

Whether you are celebrating a birthday, or just going to have dinner with your family, in any case, the rules of etiquette for all situations are the same. Table setting should take place according to a certain order and rules:

Basic rules for placing cutlery

From the first minutes, it seems to any person that it is impossible to remember the placement of all cutlery and dishes. In real life, all these rules are quite simple and are designed to facilitate the serving process. Each cutlery is arranged in the order of its priority. So, the most extreme of the devices are needed for first courses.

Most are often confused correct location cutlery, so before using, you should carefully consider the layout of their location.

Important elements in table decoration

Napkins are considered the most important items in table decoration. There are several types of napkins: linen and paper. The first type of napkins is used under plates with great depth, if there are no snack dishes on the table, or on legs. Paper napkins are usually placed in the center of the table at arm's length from the guest. For special kind the napkin can be folded into some beautiful shape, such as a rose, a ship, a swan, or any geometric shape. If napkins are used not only as an additional table decor, then it is important that they easily and simply unfold into a regular shape.

Also, when serving, you need to remember about seasonings and additives in the form of spices. Salt and pepper must be on the table without fail. At the same time, you do not need to fill the entire spice dish, it is enough that you fill the spices in half of the container. If meat dishes are included in the banquet menu, then mustard and horseradish should also be present on the table.

Table setting at home

When the weekend comes, families usually gather in one common circle at home, and the hostess prepares many different dishes. During the meal, relatives communicate with each other and tell interesting news or history. This best time, to with table decoration and setting give the conversation a special coziness and comfort. So, even at home, you can easily create the feeling of a small holiday. If there are children in the family, then such a dinner, lunch or breakfast will serve as a good indicator of how to behave at the table, why various appliances and how to use them correctly.

  • Breakfast. Correct and cozy breakfast able to give a good mood to the whole family for the whole day. In order for all dishes to look beautiful and aesthetically pleasing, you need to follow some rules and instructions. To begin with, you should put plates with snacks and sandwiches on the table, and then cups with saucers and teaspoons. In this case, the cups are located in the middle of the table, at the optimal level from the person. If breakfast will include boiled eggs, then they should be served in a special stand with a high leg. Porridge is placed in a bowl with a deep bottom and placed on a plate for snacks. It is customary to put dough products on a wide dish, while honey, butter, jam or jam should be on the table. To use oil each family member should have a small knife nearby. Also, the table must be decorated with napkins. It will be better if the napkins are made in the same style as the heater for the kettle. Remember about salt and sugar on the home table.
  • Dinner. For lunch, first and second courses are usually prepared, sometimes dessert. So, to decorate the table for lunch, you will need use a lot more parting than for breakfast. To the dishes general type extra spoons, forks, and spatulas will be needed. Deep-bottomed plates and broth cups are placed on top of diners, and dessert plates are usually served towards the end of the meal, when the main courses have already been eaten and the dirty dishes have been removed. It is important to remember about the knives that you will need for fish or meat. For dishes such as zrazy, meatballs and cutlets, it will be enough to put one fork.
  • Dinner. Serving and decorating the table for dinner is similar to the morning. Pancakes, pancakes or a pie are usually prepared for a common dish. Plates for dessert are taken out immediately, and next to them, on the right side, are forks and knives. If the dinner has a romantic focus, then candles in special candlesticks are placed on or near the table.

For a festive meal, the hostess should prepare with special effort and take care of all the details that decorate the table. Here the main thing is not only the classic rules of table setting, but also the combination of colors, and the sense of style of the owners of the holiday.

What rules should be followed when setting a festive table?

  • Napkins and tablecloth. The color and color of things can be chosen at your choice, but it is important that both the napkins and the tablecloth are combined with each other. In this case, you can use the common White color or light shades blue, cyan or green. For a romantic dinner, red, burgundy or pink color tablecloths and napkins. From napkins it is better to design unusual geometric figures or just roll them into a tube and decorate with a satin ribbon.
  • Cutlery and crockery sets. A banquet table will go well with dishes of an unusual shape: geometric shapes, beautiful curved handles. A set of snow-white porcelain dishes will look best on the table. If the tablecloth and napkins on the table are also white, then you should choose dishes decorated with a kind of border.
  • Candles. This table decor is well suited for wedding or romantic feasts; for a birthday, it is better to use candles only on the cake itself. It is also important to remember that candles must be placed in a special candlestick. It can have a narrow shape and a large height, or candles can be in bowls filled with special water and flower petals.
  • Bouquets of flowers. To harmoniously decorate the table with flowers, you need to choose vases of the correct shape and type. Tall types of vases are best used for birthday bouquets. For table setting, low vases will be more appropriate, which will not prevent guests from looking around. You also need to take into account the smell coming from the flowers, it should not be too harsh and should not interrupt the smell of the dishes.
  • Unusual compositions. Various fruit compositions will look beautiful and unusual on the festive table. Depending on the season on the street, you can decorate the table with spruce branches, mountain ash, cones, sea stones and sand. Such unusual compositions can later be used to decorate the house.
  • Table setting for a birthday. For a birthday for children, you should pick up plastic dishes and choose only those cutlery that do not have very pointed ends. The tablecloth for the table should be fun and colorful, you can choose the one that will show your favorite cartoon characters. Near unusual napkins, you can put a small gift next to it. If a girl celebrates her birthday, then various bouquets of flowers can be placed on the table. However, you should not overdo it with flowers, it is better to add more balloons or garlands. Also, near each chair there should be a sign with the name of each little guest, this will help to avoid various problems in the process of seating at the table.

Wedding table setting

Table setting for a wedding takes place in a special way. The color of the tablecloth and napkins that will decorate the table can be of any color. The main thing is to keep the entire wedding table setting in the same style and color. You should also take care of the plates with the names of the guests so that there are no difficulties with landing. Such things should be prepared in advance: it can be a cover with the name of the guest, an embroidered napkin, a piece of paper, or even a cookie decorated with an elegant inscription.

Also in a good way decorate the interior of the table and complement the bouquets of flowers and familiar balloons t use beautiful ribbons. To do this, place the ribbons above the table or decorate them with seats guests.