How to Set a Table Correctly

Choose the theme or atmosphere of your dinner party before setting your table properly. If the dinner party is going to be a bit more casual, and you are going to set up a buffet, the daily silverware is appropriate. If the dinner party is a formal occasion, use the sterling silverware (or your best silverware) to fit the mood.

Choose utensils according to what is being served. If you are serving shrimp, place a shrimp fork on the table for each of your guests. If you are planning to serve dessert, then ensure that a dessert fork is placed across the top of each place setting.

Place all items in the proper positions. Work your way in from the left side of the plate: appetizer fork, salad fork, entree fork. A napkin should be placed under the forks. Stack the plates in the order guests will use them: soup bowl on top of the salad plate on top of the entree plate. On the right side of the plate, working in from the right: soup spoon, entree spoon, knife. At the top of the place setting is the dessert fork/spoon. Finish with glasses on the right hand side above your knife and spoons: starting inside moving to the right: water glass, white wine glass, red wine glass. Also, place a butter plate and knife above the forks.

Plan your centerpiece according to the mood of your party. It can be as simple as a dozen lemons in a vase, or as extravagant as a custom order floral arrangement. Don't make the centerpiece too tall, or your guests will struggle to see other guests across the table.

Look at your table when you have finished. Make sure everything is in place, all the necessary utensils are available, and, of course, enjoy your masterpiece.