How to set a table properly

This is something that we should learn even before we actually need it: How to set a table properly. Many people are scared of setting a table for a special occasion (or not), and believe me, one day you will be faced with this "challenge". My humble advice is: Don't panic!  This is no big deal once you respect a few golden rules.

Why did I decide to write about it today? Is it not an old fashioned subject? Well, not really. In my opinion, it is a social necessity and more than that, a gesture of attention with your guests. Nowadays, I notice that many people are not pacient enough (or perhaps merely lazy?) to pay attention at certain details on how to set a nice table. I don't think you should do that only when you have guests, it's always good to show a little effort when it's only your family, or even, when it's only you. Why not? You too deserve a little bit of beauty while eating.

Talking about my personal experience, I always notice when I am invited somewhere and there is a beautiful table set. What you must realise is that setting a lovely table has nothing to do with being rich or having expensive items, this is a question of showing love, organization and wanting to please yourself and others. It's much more inviting when you sit down and you see a clean tablecloth, immaculate cutlery, simple flowers and candles on the table. What a nice feeling when you feel that everything is there especially for you. That's why I still believe that is necessary to preserve these little rituais that make life so much enjoyable.

Setting a table properly depends on a variety of details. For example: if it's for lunch or dinner, formal or informal, etc. The thing is, you should know how to set your table based on the occasion, style of your guests and type of meal. I know, it does not sound so simple, I do agree that a little research can help you before making your decisions. But we always can follow basic guidelines that makes us much comfortable in most situations.

These graphics show in a very simple way the differents occasions you may be faced while setting a table.

 

FORMAL AND CASUAL TABLE

Have a look at the next graphics below. You may want to print it and keep it with you, so next time, you will know exaclty where to place correctly all the elements on the table.

EXTRA ADVICE ON TABLE MANNERS

To finish this topic, I would like to give you an extra advice. This is a video about table manners presented by Gloria Starr, American expert in etiquette. I know, she seems a little "snobbish" while talking, but believe me, she gives valuable advices. You may think you will never need it, but next time you are invited to a fancy restaurant  you might remember her.