How the table is served correctly. Correct table setting: instructions for use

2016-07-22 301

Content

How to set the table? There are no exact, rigid rules on this score. Of course, there are basic recommendations for table setting, however, the personal taste of the one who sets the table plays an important role in the placement of accents and especially in the choice of decor.

A beautifully served table creates a pleasant atmosphere of comfort, care and celebration. There are so many nuances and possibilities in this matter that proper table setting is considered a real art.

Table setting rules

There are several basic rules, following which, you can set the table beautifully. The price of cutlery and accessories doesn't really matter. The main thing is that dishes, appliances and everything around them harmoniously combine with each other and create a complete composition... Including the interior of the room where the table is to be served. Without napkins, tablecloths, flowers or other items for decoration, this will not work. So, we describe the algorithm step by step.

The table is covered with a tablecloth - clean and ironed. Its edges should descend from the edge by twenty five to thirty centimeters.

The corners are opposite the legs.

We arrange the plates, previously washed and wiped dry, even better - polished so that they shine.

The snack plate is placed exactly opposite the chairs, and about two centimeters separate it from the edge of the tabletop.

In 5-15 centimeters, a pie plate is placed on the left (bread is put in it).

If you need more than two plates, then a shallow dining room is located under the diner.

When a two-course lunch is planned, you can first put one deep plate, and then bring a dessert one.

The knife and fork are at the main plate: the knife is on the right, next to it is the spoon, the fork is on the left.

There can be several knives: they follow in decreasing order of magnitude - from left to right.

When served butter, for him you need to put a small knife on a bread (pie) plate.

If it is necessary to use several forks, they are placed on the left side of the plate - as it decreases: dining room, for fish and for a snack.

Dessert spoon - behind the main plate (which is opposite the chair) parallel to the edge of the table, its handle is turned to the right.

For wine, the glass is placed on the right side, right behind the knife.

Other glasses or glasses are placed next to it.

When there is only water from the drinks on the menu, then glasses or glasses for it are right behind the main plate.

For kvass or fruit drink, you need a glass or crystal mug that has a handle.

If the table is served completely, then the dishes into which the drinks are poured stand in two rows.

All items on the table should be at least half to one centimeter apart.

There are subtleties of table setting for different dishes. So, it is customary to eat spaghetti with a spoon and a fork, therefore there is no knife in the composition. In Italian cuisine, there is always water on the table - a glass with it is closer to the main plate than others.

Mandatory accessories

Napkins - it is necessary. Once the glassware is placed, cloth napkins are placed on the snack plates, which are best rolled up nicely. Sometimes you can use paper napkins.

And the final chord - spice dishes, flowers in vases, other table decorations. Salt, so that it does not quickly moisten, is best used in a mixture - ordinary table salt with dry. And only half of the pepper is poured into the pepper shaker.

Flowers very harmonious with the festive table setting, however, the everyday table will only benefit from them. It is important that the vases for them are low. It should be provided that pollen does not fall from the flowers and petals do not fall.

We serve the table for the celebration

Special preparation is needed for the festive feast. This will help create an atmosphere of celebration, lunch or dinner will be great, guests will be satisfied.

In addition to dishes, you will need tablecloth: perfect white. You can choose a tablecloth with patterns, but not bright. Keep the tablecloth elegant and the napkins the same style. If you fold them in an intricate way, it will be even more interesting.

There is one pattern here. Table setting experts believe that crystal dishes requires only a white tablecloth, but porcelain can be combined with colored ones.

It is worth setting the table and decorating it in one style. This means that all the dishes, cutlery, spice dishes and décor must all go together. At the same time, it is important to take into account that the room where the table is laid also harmonizes with what is on it. If all these rules are followed, the effect is amazing!

For example, if the table is being prepared for, accessories in the New Year's theme are appropriate. Wedding celebration assumes its own table design, and birthday allows any options. The main thing is that the table does not overshadow the birthday man himself.

Dishes and cutlery are placed on general rules, everything is as described above - point by point. Then everything will be as it should be. There are enough plates for different dishes. Guests will feel comfortable, the food will be even tastier, and the general atmosphere of the holiday will be at its best.

Children's holiday

Children do not need unnecessary "strictness". It is important that young guests are as comfortable as possible. And so that the mood of joy and mischief is reflected in the serving.

Which one will be dishes, for children it does not matter: let it be comfortable and relatively inexpensive - exquisite porcelain or glass is not the most suitable option, because children can easily break it, which will ruin the mood. You can even use disposable tablewarebut good quality, with bright pictures.

It is not important for children whether there are delicacies on the table or ordinary, but interesting and favorite snacks. But they will appreciate if they put food on plates and do not have to put anything on and cut using a knife. After all, these are children who are not up to ceremonies.

It is good if the items on the table are as small as possible. The simpler the better. The main thing is that everything is convenient.

But the decor is almost the main condition for the successful serving of a festive feast for children. Various balloons, decorative paper decoration, bright tablecloth, caps, - all this will delight the young guests. It is worth paying maximum attention to this. After all, children like to play.

The theme of the celebration continues in the decoration of the table. When young "fairies" came to the girl, and everything around looks like a castle from a fairy tale, the table, of course, should be decorated in the same way. A party for boys, where there are many robots and the corresponding animator and other decor, will be brighter if the table is also “robotic”.

Beautiful - every day

You don't have to wait for a holiday to enjoy a wonderful table setting. One has only to spend a little more time setting the table for a regular breakfast or dinner.

It will be easy if you have beautiful napkins and dishes in stock - albeit inexpensive, but in the same stylistic and color scheme.

In this case, the tablecloth is completely optional. On the contrary, modern trend - to do without it at home. And replace with wicker bamboo napkins, wooden coasters or cloth napkins... You can link them yourself. Beautiful tough paper napkins are also suitable.

A beautifully folded napkin tied with a ribbon, a flower in a vase will help add sophistication. You should not complicate the serving: a minimum of dishes, but as much imagination as possible.

How to set the table correctly: video

The real hostess always pays special attention not only the preparation of delicious dishes for this or that celebration, but also serving festive table... A beautifully and properly served table arouses appetite, promotes good mood and pleasant communication, harmonizes with the interior of the room and corresponds to a particular holiday, makes guests admire the hostess's talents. If you want to know how to properly set the table - read about it in our article.

Tablecloth

The tablecloth is where the setting of any table begins. When choosing the color of the tablecloth, give preference to light tones and non-tacky (preferably plain, although variations are possible depending on the interior of the room, the color of the dishes, etc.) colors.

Check the condition of the tablecloth at least one day before the celebration. It must be perfectly clean. Even the most inconspicuous spots have no right to be on it. Also, the tablecloth should be well ironed. A freshly ironed starched tablecloth has an ideal look.

When covering the table with a tablecloth, make sure that its corners cover the table legs, and the ends descend from the edge of the table by about 30 cm.Under the tablecloth you can put soft tissue - then the sound of cutlery knocking on the table will be completely inaudible. Putting a transparent oilcloth on the tablecloth (in order to avoid contamination of the tablecloth) is possible only if the family gathers at the table, but for guests (friends, work colleagues, etc.) this is unacceptable.

Arrangement of dishes

All dishes must be clean: they must be pre-washed and thoroughly wiped dry. It is highly desirable that all the dishes on the table are from one set (if there are many guests, then 2 or 3 sets for 6 persons each - the main thing is that it does not turn out that all guests have different plates, glasses, forks) - otherwise, it will be created the impression of disharmony.

Plates are placed in front of each guest at a distance of about 2-3 cm from the edge of the table. Make sure that all the plates are in one line. If there are several plates, they can be stacked one on top of the other (snack plates are placed on small large plates). Guests' plates should be at least 60 cm apart so that those sitting at the table do not push their elbows.

Cutlery is placed as follows: next to the main dish lie a knife (on the right, sharpened side to the plate), a spoon (on the right, convex side down, put if the first course is provided) and a fork (on the left, convex side down), put a dessert spoon behind a plate. If other cutlery is provided (snack knife, fish knife, oyster knife, etc.), they are placed in the order of use. A distance of no more than 1 cm must be maintained between cutlery. Drinking devices (a glass for vodka or cognac, a glass for wine or champagne, a glass for water or juice) are located on the right behind the knife.

Napkins

Napkins are an important element of table setting. They can be fabric or paper. Cloth napkins (most often linen) are laid out rolled up on plates after the main stage of table setting is completed. If the napkins are paper, use a napkin holder for them. Choose napkins to match (or by contrasting principle) tablecloths.

Dishes and drinks

The main dishes are placed around the perimeter of the table - you can try several options for their arrangement to make it as convenient and beautiful as possible. In the center, you can place the hostess's “signature” dish or the dish that is best decorated.

Any seasonings for dishes: salt, spices, vinegar, sauce, etc. - placed in the center of the table so that everyone can reach them. Bread boxes are placed on opposite sides of the table. Fruits are laid out on special wide vases (it is recommended to cut large fruits into slices). Dessert is placed behind a glass or served at the end of the meal (if the table is small or the dessert contains quickly melting ingredients: ice cream, jelly). All dishes must be accompanied by cutlery (spoons, scoops, etc.)

Drink bottles are put in different places tables and open before guests sit at the table. The only exception is for champagne - it is opened immediately before pouring into glasses. Juices, compotes are best poured into decanters.

Flowers and other table decorations

Flowers are a great addition to the overall table setting. They should be placed in low but stable vases and positioned on the table so as not to cover the guests' faces, not to interfere with communication and meals. Choose flowers to match the tablecloth or dishes.

The table can be decorated with candles, small holiday-themed figurines, and gel balloons. The main thing is that everything should be in moderation and complement the atmosphere of the holiday at the table, and not "call out" eyes.

Correct table setting, corresponding to the event, occasion and time of day of the feast, will allow guests to feel satisfaction from both the event and the meal itself.

Correct table setting not only emphasizes the delicate taste of the hostess, but also shows her respect for guests and households.

The table is served taking into account the occasion, menu, theme and time of day. At the same time, the purpose of any serving is to provide guests with a comfortable and pleasant pastime and convenient access to all the dishes presented.

Basic rules for table setting with cutlery at home

The first step is to choose and cover tablecloth... For rectangular table take a tablecloth 50 - 60 cm longer than the table top. If a round or oval table - 100 - 110 cm wider than the countertop diameter.

Calculate the length of the tablecloth so that its edges are 30-50 cm below the bottom surface of the table.

For homemade lunch you will need a solid white tablecloth, but other calm pastel colors will do.

IMPORTANT: It is good if the color and texture of the tablecloth is in harmony with the color and texture of curtains, upholstery of sofas and armchairs in the room. In any case, the tablecloth should be ironed flawlessly.

When the table is set arrange appliances... First of all - glass and porcelain plates and dishes... Behind them - knives, spoons, forks and other necessary devices.

The last to be put on glass and crystal glasses, glasses, glasses.

Scheme of the correct sorting of the holiday table

Place the appliances in this way:

any knives put on the right with the cutting edge facing the plate
a tablespoon put also on the right, so that its convex part is at the bottom
forks after setting the table, they should be on the left, with their teeth pointing up
dessert spoon should be behind the plate, its handle is turned to the right

IMPORTANT: When serving with cutlery, you must take into account that they will be used from the outer edge and change items depending on the serving of new dishes. For convenience, objects should be placed at a distance of about 1 cm from each other.

Basic rules for table setting with dishes at home

Plates are put on the table first, and glasses, piles, glasses - last.

Arrange the plates in this order:

Medium plate (diner) set so that 2.5 - 3 cm remains to the edge of the table.
Pie (bread) plate position to the left, leaving about 10 cm.
If you intend to change dishes, put under the diner small dinner plate, having previously spread a napkin under it.

IMPORTANT: Depending on the type of the first course, choose a plate for it. If cream soup or broth will be served, take a bowl, if thick soup or borscht, take a large deep plate.

Wine glass put on the right, glass for water - on the left, but they must be in one line. Two rows of dishes for drinks are allowed if a grand event is being prepared with big amount various dishes and drinks.

IMPORTANT: Tableware must be prepared in advance. To do this, it is washed, dried, and thoroughly wiped with a towel. The main thing is that before serving, the dishes look perfect. Streaks, streaks, cloudy or opaque appearance are unacceptable.

Folding table napkins

Napkins - an integral attribute of any feast. No matter how beautifully folded paper or linen napkins are, do not forget that they, first of all, serve for the convenience of guests.

Therefore, any napkin should be located in the most accessible place, and even the most intricate napkin figure should be easy to unfold.

The pictures and video show how to quickly and beautifully make a flat or three-dimensional figure from a napkin.

IMPORTANT: Volumetric figures made of cloth napkins will keep their shape well, and the napkins themselves can be easily removed from dirt if they are starched.

To starch a linen napkin:

In 0.5 l cold water add 1.5 tbsp. starch and stir until you get a homogeneous, cloudy white solution that does not contain lumps.
Boil 1 liter of water, pour into the prepared solution and stir.
Cool and strain through cheesecloth.
Dip clean, dry napkins into the solution and squeeze out a little.
Hang the napkins to dry without using clothespins.
Start ironing between two towels as soon as all the water drains off the napkins.

IMPORTANT: According to the rules of etiquette, beautifully folded napkins should be at festive feasts. For other events, napkins can simply be neatly placed in a glass or stand.

Table setting rules for breakfast according to etiquette

To properly set the table for breakfast, follow the following diagram:

Arrange the snack plates.
Place cups and glasses.
Place a teaspoon on a saucer.
Place the egg holder on the snack plate, don't forget the special spoon.
Also place a deep porridge plate on the snack plate.
Place a coffee pot or tea with a hot drink in the middle of the table.
Serve the sandwiches or croissants on a large, flat platter.

IMPORTANT: On the table served for breakfast, a saucer for jam or honey, an oil can, a salt shaker and a sugar bowl will be appropriate.

Table setting rules for dinner etiquette

There are several table setting options for lunch, since the lunch itself can consist of a different number of dishes:

Place a small plate on a tablecloth-covered table.
Put a deep plate on a shallow plate - for the first course.
Add a snack platter if you will be serving foods that should not be eaten from the shared dishes.
Place a fork to the left of the plates, and the soup spoon and knife to the right, with the knife closer to the plates and the spoon closer to the edge of the table.
Decorate your snack plate with beautifully folded napkins.
In the center of the table, place a salt shaker, dishes with the necessary spices and seasonings.
Place the wine and water glasses on the right and left respectively.
Place the bottle with the alcoholic drink uncorked on the table.
Fresh flowers in the center of the table will decorate and complement even imperfect table setting.
Serve the oil in an oil can.
Serve the first hot in a tureen.

Dinner table setting rules according to etiquette

Dinner, be it a party or a quiet family dinner, is always associated with warmth and comfort. Therefore, it is important for the hostess not only to set the table correctly, but also to supplement the setting with the appropriate details.

Choose a tablecloth (fine pattern will do).
Place two small plates one on top of the other, and place a plate for bread to the left of them.
To the left of the plates, place the forks upside down, and to the right, place the knives with the blades facing the plate.
Place dishes for alcoholic beverages to the right of the plates, for water to the left.

IMPORTANT: Dinner table setting is similar to dinner table setting, but it is distinguished by the absence of a deep plate and spoon for the first course. These dishes do not belong on the table in the evening.

Beautiful setting of the festive table: rules

Festive table usually served not only for their family members, but also for invited guests.

There are several rules for setting the festive table, observing which any hostess can show her ability to meet guests at the highest level:

Tablecloth for the festive table should be perfectly clean and ironed. It is advisable to spread a thick cloth on the table under the tablecloth, which will avoid the clinking of the dishes in case of accidental drop, and also protect the table surface from spilled liquids. However, it is permissible not to cover a table made of expensive wood at all.
Dishes and cutlerythat are used for serving must be from the same set. It is unacceptable to serve a festive table with dishes different colors and sizes. The cleanliness and shine of the dishes must be impeccable.
how plates and cutlery should be laid out only in the order in which the hostess plans to serve dishes.
There should be no excess dishes and utensils... Items "just in case" are not needed, but only spoil the look of the table.
All alcoholic drinks served on the table in pre-opened bottles, but champagne is opened just before serving.
For each guest, one cloth and several paper must be prepared napkins.
First course the hostess pours the guests into plates from the tureen. A guest or family member can help her serve the filled plates. This should be done by approaching everyone at the table from the right side.
Second course guests themselves put in their plate from the common dish.

IMPORTANT: The following order of serving dishes at the festive table is generally accepted: appetizer, first course, fish dish, meat dish, sweet dessert and fruit, tea or coffee.

Presence in the center of the festive table thematic decor will emphasize the efforts of the hostess and give the feast coziness and warmth.

Banquet table setting rules

Banquets arranged in honor of any major holiday, for example, an anniversary or a wedding. The very concept of "banquet table" implies that the event will be held in a specially rented banquet hall, waiters will serve the guests.

Banquet attributes are:

various decorations (balls, bows, special drapery)
entertainment for guests (live music, performances, toastmaster or host of the holiday)

Banquet table must match the setting, occasion and general mood. The main rules for serving it:

Are used folding tables , which are arranged depending on the number of guests, hall features, type of service.
The tables are set white banquet tablecloths, leaving descents from the edges of about 25 cm.
First of all, place small plates... They are placed in such a way that the distance between adjacent plates is at least 60 cm, but not more than 80 cm, and the distance to the edge of the table does not exceed 1 - 2 cm. Place snack plates on top, and pies on the left.
On right put knivesblades facing the plates. All devices located on the right: table knife, fish knife, table spoon, snack knife.
To the left of the plate: dining fork, fish fork, two snack forks.
Dessert fork and knife placed behind a plate.
Also behind the plate are wine glass, to the right of the glass - shot glasses for stronger drinks.
Cloth napkins put on plates, after giving them a beautiful look.
Low flowerpots with natural or artificial flowers placed evenly in the center of the table.
Also, table decoration can serve vases with fruit and grapes.

IMPORTANT: For a banquet table, every little thing is important, so serving takes a lot of time.

Table setting rules in a restaurant

There are two serving options in the restaurant:

banquet
preliminary (corresponding to the order from the menu) with additional service

The name of the serving “preliminary” speaks for itself - the serving will need to be added after the guests have chosen the dishes and place the order.

Items that must be present on the guest's table according to the rules pre-serving:

table knife, plate, fork
wine glass
cloth napkin
additional accessories (spices, folding menu cards, table number in the form of a plate, ashtray, etc.)

Dessert table setting rules

Dessert time is the end of the main feast. All dessert devices are served shortly before the dessert itself. A fork is placed to the left of the dessert plate, a spoon to the right.

Dessert is served on plate-stands. If it is chilled, it can be served in bowls or bowls.

Sweet table setting rules

The setting of the sweet table has no fundamental differences. They put a plate, put the cutlery in front of it. A deep plate is placed on top of a flat plate - for liquid sweets.

On the right side of the plates are wine glasses and glasses. On the shelves, you can put fruits or various cakes.

Before inviting guests to the table, it is covered with a tablecloth, preferably in soft colors.

A tea cup is larger than a coffee cup and is placed on a saucer. The spoon is placed on the saucer. A dessert plate is placed to the left of the cup. For sugar use special tongs.

Tea table setting rules

The main rules for serving the tea table coincide with the basic serving rules described earlier, however, several recommendations will help create a more comfortable atmosphere for guests invited to tea drinking:

The color and style of the tea set should match the color and texture of the tablecloth.
It is desirable that there is a composition of fresh flowers on the table.
If classic Russian tea is supposed to be served, serving tea directly from the samovar, which is placed to the left of the hostess of the house or placed on a separate table, will be appropriate and at the same time original.
Milk is served in a milk jug for tea. It is advisable to put the milk jug on a plate so as not to accidentally spill its contents onto the tablecloth.
The cake, roll or pie is cut in portions. Fruits are placed in vases, candies in candy bowls. The berries are laid out in bowls or plates.
Alcoholic drinks are allowed at the tea table.

IMPORTANT: Tea drinking is a time of easy intimate conversations. Even if the setting of the tea table is not ideal, the guests are positive and kind cozy atmosphere brighten up the evening and make small flaws invisible.

Buffet table setting rules

Buffet held at official receptions, corporate events, presentations.

The peculiarity of its conduct consists in the fact that the event may be attended by many people, but neither a large hall nor special financial costs will be needed for this.

IMPORTANT: They arrange a buffet table in the evening, it lasts a maximum of 2 hours. The purpose of the event is to communicate, make acquaintances. It is considered bad form to be one of the first to start eating and be the last to leave the buffet table.

Features of table setting for a buffet table:

Tables are covered with white tablecloths and arranged in such a way that guests can freely move around the hall. A separate table is prepared for dirty dishes.
There are no chairs, as during the buffet guests themselves come to the tables and choose food.
Buffet menu - snacks, light salads. Champagne and wine are acceptable drinks.
Wine glasses and stacks of plates are placed at the ends of the table; forks are placed next to the plates in special stands. Guests will take their own dishes.
The main thing is to leave enough space around the edges of the tables.
Place napkins in holders and spaced evenly.
Be sure to decorate tables and halls with flowers, fruit baskets.
Water and juice are poured into glasses, alcohol is left in bottles, after opening them.
The buffet menu consists of dishes that you can easily put on your plate: canapes, sandwiches and light snacks.

Birthday table setting rules

Birthday Is a holiday that can be celebrated both in a narrow circle of relatives and closest people, and in a noisy company of friends, acquaintances and good acquaintances.

Depending on what kind of holiday the birthday person wants to arrange, you should choose a venue, menu, type of service.

If planned quiet family dinner, then either a festive table or a table for dinner is served.
If the birthday will pass in the cafe or a restaurant with a pre-agreed menu, a banquet table is served.
Those who decided on their birthday visit a restaurant, but did not pre-book a table and certain dishes, there will be a standard restaurant pre-service.

Table setting rules for children in pictures

From childhood, you need to teach your child the basics of etiquette. In adulthood, this knowledge will be useful to him more than once. So that when studying the rules of behavior at the table and the basics of serving it, the baby does not have any difficulties, you can conduct classes in a playful way and use special pictures.

Knowing and putting into practice the rules and features of table setting, you can feel confident when inviting guests or setting the table for a family celebration.

Joint feasts for a cozy, beautiful decorated table will bring positive emotions to the hosts and their guests and, perhaps, such feasts will turn into a good good family tradition.

Video: How to set the table correctly?

Table setting at home is a whole set of laws of etiquette. Every hostess should be able to maneuver in this creative sea and distinguish aesthetic nuances. Not everyone can afford to have a butler on their personal staff. Therefore, you need to learn how to receive guests on your own.

Holidays differ in the level of public perception of the event. Let's start with small household joys: name day, homeland, christening, dates from family history. Festive table setting at home depends on the number of guests.

Family celebration

Such events can mean both a large number of guests and a quiet family dinner. If you plan to arrange just tea gatherings, warn the guests in advance. An invitation "to tea" implies the absence of a strict dress code.

The hostess is the heroine of the festive table, regardless of who is the hero of the occasion. You can lay a bright colored tablecloth on the table. From personal appliances, you can only arrange pie plates and dessert accessories.

The hostess, sitting at the head of the table, pours tea and hands it over to the guests. In the center you can serve various desserts: berries and fruits, cakes, pastries, cookies or sweets. In the middle there are also vases with jam and honey.

Fresh flowers are the decoration of the table. You can put in the middle a small low vase with a bouquet or flower arrangement on a wide platter. The traditional samovar is an original decoration of the tea table. Don't forget about brightly painted paper napkins. From alcohol, you can offer guests dessert wine or liqueur.

Children holidays

Children have a lot of events to celebrate: birthday, first time in first grade, sports achievements - you can't list everything. How to please the youngest household members?

Serving children's table at home means maximum comfort and a minimum of constraining traditions. Children should laugh! Offer them lots of colors and sweets.

Everyone loves sweets. Therefore, it is better to make a children's table for dessert. Everything is very similar to "tea gatherings". Only hot drinks should not be offered. It is better to serve the table with juices or compotes.

Bright colored jellies can be prepared for the children's table. It is undesirable to arrange fruits in large crystal vases. You can make individual chocolate baskets and put there assorted berries and fruits: strawberries, apricots, grapes, raspberries, plums. Don't forget about cakes and sweets!

Daily beauty

If you want your household to be charged with vivacity and good mood every day, please them with gastronomic delights. Everyday table setting for dinner, lunch and breakfast is not much different from democratic tea drinking. There will only be more individual devices. For breakfast, it is perfectly acceptable to serve a tea-style table. But a family lunch or dinner is already a small event.

The tablecloth must be replaced from a multi-colored to a plain one. Ideally, a snow-white starch canvas. The dinner tablecloth can be decorated with an ornament in the form of a wide strip along the edge.

The dining tablecloth should not hang more than 50-60 centimeters from the edge of the table. For lunch and dinner, linen napkins can be served with each appliance. If you are practicing traditional family meals, you can use dining accessories such as napkin rings, silver and gold plated cutlery.

The main dishes are placed in the middle of the table. You can immediately put cold snacks and hot dishes. If the dinner is festive, then first an aperitif and snacks are served, then the hostess's signature dish.

The hostess is the queen of the dinner. She should know, with all the nuances, how to properly set the table for dinner or for a birthday. Tureens and deep plates are placed on an additional table. Only small wide plates, cutlery, glasses and glasses are personally placed on the table. The hostess pours the hot dish and hands it over to the household.

This traditional version can be replaced with a more democratic one: put the tureen in the middle of the table, and deep plates - personally. Everyone serves himself.

Don't forget to decorate dinner table fresh flowers... From alcoholic beverages, you can offer table wine, sherry, vodka. They don't drink cognac at dinner. Port wine and beer are also excluded. These drinks can be served with afternoon coffee or a pleasant conversation with fireplace .

Dinner is served as strictly as lunch. Only fresh flowers can be replaced candles in high candlesticks ... Instead of crystal, you can put silver dishes on the table: common dishes, gravy boats, salad bowls. Evening is a time of soft shadows. The table setting must match.

Be sure to place paper napkins on the table. But don't forget about linen, too! The guests unfold the napkin and place it on their lap.

If the wedding table setting at home is very dense, you should not put fresh flowers. Better decorate garlands room. It is advisable to invite attendants to the wedding, who will change dishes. It is difficult for the hostess to keep track of all the guests alone.

Whatever celebration is celebrated in your home, remember: the main thing is a good mood and a smile!

Every self-respecting housewife should know the basic rules of table setting according to etiquette. It is the art of arranging cutlery beautifully in accordance with good form. The table setting has rich history: in each era there were rules for table decoration, which have changed over time. Of course, there are many subtleties and nuances, but it is not at all necessary to apply them all. It is enough to know the basic rules of table setting.

General rules for table setting

A table set according to the rules of etiquette is always pleasing to the eye and it is pleasant to spend time at it with a leisurely conversation. Basic serving rules are quite simple.

All cutlery must be perfectly clean. To achieve sparkling cleanliness, wipe them with a damp warm towel. Then wipe dry thoroughly.
Make sure that there are no leaks on the cutlery and dishes.
An important part of the table setting is the tablecloth. It must be perfectly ironed. You need to cover the table with it so that the edges slightly cover its legs. They should hang by about 25-30 cm. It is not necessary to additionally cover the tablecloth with oilcloth, because this is not accepted by the rules of good form.
The number of cutlery depends on the number of dishes that will be served at the table.
The arrangement of appliances for each guest must be the same.

By following these basic rules, your table will always be decorated according to etiquette.

Tablecloth on the table

The classic and win-win option is snow-white tablecloth ... She always looks elegant and solemn.
However, you shouldn't be afraid to experiment. It should be selected depending on the overall color palette cutlery, interior and type of feast. But one thing golden Rule yes: the tablecloth should be combined with curtains and furniture upholstery.
Light shades are usually preferred. But they can be colored, monochromatic and patterned. But the pattern should be located along the edge, because excessive variegation can distract the attention of guests. If you prefer a dark colored tablecloth, then the cutlery should be light in color.
Now there is a large selection of tablecloth shapes and materials, but usually choose it rectangular or triangular. It is best to choose one made from fabric, especially from natural materials - it will add even more comfort to the feast. The size should be such that its edges could cover the table legs, and the ends should hang 25-30 cm, but not below the level of the seats.

The tablecloth for table setting is spread as follows: open, take by the ends on one side. Then it is lifted, shaken and sharply lowered down. This makes it easier to level it. But you do not need to stretch it too much and pull on the corners.

If the surface is polished, then an oilcloth should be placed under the tablecloth. The main thing is that it is clean and well ironed.

Cutlery - layout diagram

To the location cutleryetiquette must be approached responsibly. You don't need to put all kinds of appliances on the table. They must correspond to the festive list of dishes. Cutlery is subdivided into individual (which each guest has) and auxiliary - they are needed in order to lay out the dishes.

In dining etiquette, it is customary to first put dishes made of earthenware or porcelain, then place the cutlery, and only then put glass or crystal.
Glasses and wine glasses must be placed holding the leg.
According to the rules of etiquette, the spoon and knife should be placed to the right of the plate, and the fork - to the left.
You need to use the devices, starting from the outer edge, changing them towards the plate as you change dishes.
The distance between the cutlery and the plate should be 0.5-1 cm.

The figure shows the location of the cutlery. Of course, the set of forks, spoons and knives depends on what dishes will be served on the table. They are also selected depending on the drinks and glasses with glasses.

Serving plates

There is an order of the layout of the plates.

Snack Plate - Place it opposite each chair, approximately 2 cm from the edge.
A pie plate (bread) - it is customary to put it on the left side of the diner at a distance of 5-15 cm.
If you serve several dishes, then a dining room is placed under the diner.

The hostess is responsible for timely replacement with clean plates.

Serving with napkins

They are an integral part of the serving. Folding napkins beautifully is a real art. The more solemn the holiday, the more exquisite they can be folded.

The material is chosen depending on the type of feast. For a holiday you can take cotton or linenf. They are usually meant to be placed on their knees by guests.

If you decide to use paper, then they are removed under the right edge of the plate. Or they are placed in general availability.

Napkins can be of any color, the main thing is that they are beautifully and neatly folded.

Spice devices

It is customary to put them on the festive table at the very end of the serving. They are placed on special stands in the center of the table. So small boards or saucers can be used as coasters. It must be a salt shaker and a pepper shaker, as well as additionally mustard, vinegar, vegetable oil and other spices.

Glasses for drinks

You need to remember about serving and glasses. They can be made of both glass and crystal. For stronger alcohol, small glasses are intended. Therefore, there should be a wine glass, a glass, a glass, glasses on the table.

They are selected depending on the color of the drink. For red wine, they should be higher than for white. Champagne is served in special glasses. There are also special beer glasses. It is customary to serve vodka in glasses.

The following set of cutlery must be present on the table:

pie plate;
diner;
wine glass;
saucer;
coffee cup and saucer.

Bread can also be served in a wicker basket, while butter is served in a ceramic or porcelain oiler to retain its flavor. Sausage and meat cuts are served in an elongated plate. Cheese served whole piece on a china board, a cheese knife is placed next to it.

A snack plate is placed opposite the center of the chair, a pie plate is placed to the left of it. The knife is placed to the right of the snack plate, with the blade facing it. Fork - on the left side, prongs up. The teaspoon is placed with the handle to the right, parallel to the table. In the center are placed vases of flowers, napkins and appliances with spices.

How to properly serve lunch and dinner

The setting of the dining table is carried out taking into account the fact that you can serve guests conveniently and quickly. To do this, put the snack plate on a stand, on the left side - a pie plate. Cutlery is placed between them - a knife and a spoon on the right, and a table fork on the left. And in front of the cutlery is a wine glass.

Also, when setting the table for dinner, you should place a ladle with which you need to pour the soup. This must be done carefully so as not to stain the tablecloth. If you dripped a little, you need to blot the stain with a napkin. The main thing is not to attract the attention of guests, so as not to disturb the calm flow of the conversation.

Dessert table setting

For serving the dessert table, it is permissible to choose a brighter tablecloth. Ideal option will use a special tea set. It is customary to place beautiful lace napkins in the center of the table and under tea cups. The setting of a sweet table according to festive etiquette consists of the following cutlery:

cups and saucers (the cup must be turned with the handle to the right);
teaspoons (put on a saucer, it is also permissible to place spoons behind a cup parallel to the table, with a handle on the right side);
small teapot;
a large kettle for boiling water;
table setting for dessert involves the use of a sugar bowl, in which lump sugar is served along with tongs, or a special bowl;
a vase for jam or jam is placed on the left side;
lemon for tea is served on a special tray with a two-pronged fork for unfolding;
the milkman is placed on a pie plate on the right side of the guest.
A plate for bread and sweets should be placed in front of each guest. Diagonally on the right side of it - a cup and a saucer, next to put a teaspoon. The special cake serving spatula should be placed on the right side of the main plate.
Saucers are placed on the table, tea or coffee is poured into cups only when all the guests take their places. Sweets are served on an elegant table: buns, pies with sweet filling, cakes, muffins, sweets and fruits. Wine and liqueurs are acceptable from alcoholic beverages.

For a youth company, you can make a buffet table. It is served in a stack of plates (8-10 pieces in one stack). Cloth napkins are placed behind it. Glasses and wine glasses are placed next to drinks. If the company has smoking people - Ashtrays are placed at the ends of the table.

Festive table setting

Banquet table setting helps to create a festive mood. The main thing is not only to properly serve dishes, but also to decorate the table beautifully. Table setting for a banquet depends on what dishes are served at the holiday. But there are principles classic design festive table.

Chairs must be placed at a distance of 50 to 80 cm from each other, so as not to disturb the personal space of guests.
The tablecloth should be light shades, bright and dark colors best left for tea tables. Its edges should hang no more than 20-30 cm. To prevent the knocking from the dishes to distract the guests from the conversation, an oilcloth or soft cloth should be placed under the tablecloth. But the main thing is that it should be perfectly ironed and clean.

A napkin is placed on a serving plate and a plate intended for hot is placed on it. On the left side of the snack plate, place the patty so that they are on the same line. The serving plate should always remain in its place, and others can be changed during the serving.

There should be no more than 3 pairs of forks and spoons. To the right of the serving plate, put the soup spoon, snack and table knives with the blade towards the plate, and put the forks on the left side. Only the oyster fork can be placed on the right. Place the forks with the prongs up, and the spoons with the convex side on the table.
Location principle: the dish that is served first is the distant device.

Decor

Festive table setting is also an opportunity to show your creative possibilities... You need to pay attention to decor items - a win-win option to use flowers. Usually they are placed in the middle of the table - it can be a bouquet or a composition.
It is important to consider the following nuances:

so that none of the guests are allergic to them;
the bouquet should not contain flowers with a strong aroma;
the vase with the bouquet must be placed at a distance from the cutlery.

On the New Year or a romantic date, you can choose more original decoration table. For the New Year's feast, you can put a composition made from pine needles, christmas tree decorations, tinsel. Candles are perfect for a romantic evening. On the table, the holiday atmosphere will be conveyed by objects in the form wedding rings, figurines of the bride and groom, doves.

With special imagination, it is worth approaching the design of the table for a children's birthday. Can be attached to the back of the chairs balloons, and pictures from your favorite cartoons will be a bright detail. It is important that everyone decorative elements were designed in the same style. They should not be too high for guests to see each other. The main thing is not to overdo it with the decoration, so that the serving on the holiday and the decoration complement each other.

Depending on the interior and fantasy, a festive or dining table can amaze guests with its sophistication. AND additional elements serving will give it brightness and originality. The listed design principles are not complicated and are an indicator of good taste.