The dining table has always been more than a functional piece of furniture. It is a gathering place within the home — a space for laughter, conversation and sharing; a source of nourishment for both body and soul. A dining room has the allure to go beyond mere sustenance; it sets up the meal, elevating the mundane and monotonous to the memorable and meaningful. Whether it’s a family meal, a casual dinner gathering or a grand soiree, mastering the art of setting the right table for the occasion will allow you to set the tone effortlessly.
Remember that your table is a reflection of your style and aesthetic. Whether your style is rustic, minimalist, homely or luxurious, use these tips as a schematic to help you create a dining environment that is inviting, warm, elegant and memorable.
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Prepare Your Canvas
Before you begin decorating your table, remember to do a good clean-down. A clean and clutter-free table not only provides a blank canvas for your creativity, but also ensures the overall hygiene of your experience.
Wipe down your surface to get rid of spills and stains. If you have a wooden table, consider using a little polish to bring back its beauty and sheen. Metal or glass, opt for a cleaning spray to bring back that sparkle!
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Pick Your Weaves: Tablecloths and Runners
Photo by Libby Penner on Unsplash
Tablecloths and runners are the foundation of the aesthetic journey. They set the stage, define the mood and add color and a sense of the moment. A tablecloth or runner’s material can go a long way in defining the kind of meal you are laying out.
Linen brings elegance, adds texture and suggests a formal affair. Versatile cotton, on the other hand, is easy to care for, durable and a great option for everyday use. Luxurious silk can be temperamental and beautiful, bringing an unmistakable flair for style. If you’re after a more rustic setting that brings warmth and charm, then a woven fabric is your best option.
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Build Your Base: Placemats and Chargers
Dining room table accessories serve multiple functions in a table setting; they frame each place setting, protect your table and add a layer of texture and pattern.
With placemats, you can play with material, shapes and sizes. Depending on your aesthetic, choose from different materials including wood, bamboo, fabric, leather, plastic, vinyl or cork. The shape and size of your placemats will largely depend on the shape of your table; other than that, they can be square, oval, round or rectangular.
Chargers are dependent on the plates being used. Their primary function is to catch spills and crumbs while adding a touch of sophistication to the general table aesthetic. You can choose from a plethora of materials like wood, metal, ceramic or even glass.
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Dishing It Up: Dinnerware
Image by Yiftah Yeshaayahu from Pixabay
The dinnerware you pick will set the tone for the meal, and its material usually dictates the event or setting:
- Fine China: Usually reserved for formal dinners or special occasions. Delicate, intricately designed and high-maintenance.
- Porcelain: More durable than China, but still delicate and ornate; appropriate for both formal and casual events.
- Stoneware: Heavy, rustic, durable; a great option for everyday use. While most popularly available in earthy tones, they can add a pop of color and character if needed.
- Earthware: Handmade and artisanal, less durable than stoneware, but still works very well in a casual setting.
While these are basic rules, don’t be afraid to mix and match with different patterns or colors. As long as there is a central theme pulling it all together, be as wild or as tame as you like.
When picking out cutlery, remember to consider usability. Heavy, ornate, unwieldy silverware is difficult to use and can ruin the entire dining experience.
Next up is placement. Forks are usually placed on the right side of the plate with spoons and knives on the left. If your meal includes different courses with the need for different cutlery, arrange the cutlery in the order they will be used, from outside in.
(A great tip is to polish your flatware before a special meal to look new and shiny.)
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Table Decor and Centerpieces
Centerpieces, table decor and napkins complement any table setting and make any dinner seem more thought out.
Decor can include condiments, table sauces, candles, potpourri bowls and so much more. As long as the decor does not clutter or obstruct conversation or line of sight, your imagination is your canvas.
Centerpieces can include flower arrangements, sustainable, seasonal or local decorations or abstract pieces. When building your centerpiece, keep in mind height and balance, symmetry and grouping, cultivating a deliberate, rather than happenstance, look.
Rounding It Up
All in all, setting the perfect table combines functionality and aesthetics that work for you and your home. Irrespective of the occasion, a well-set table will elevate the overall dining experience.
Pay attention to the little details and remember that ultimately, the effort you put into setting a table reflects your care and consideration for your guests. So make the time to plan and execute the table you want to showcase!
