Daphnemontes

Set a formal Dinner

When it comes to entertaining, few things impress quite like a formal dinner table—especially when it’s been properly set. More importantly, taking the time to set a formal table shows your guests how much you care. “Knowing you are expected and are an honored guest only adds to the anticipation of the meal and the company,” says Jodi Smith, etiquette expert and founder of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. But between knowing what utensils go where, when certain plates should be cleared (or added) to the table, and how many glasses should be at each place setting, the correct formal table setting etiquette can get a little tricky. That’s what typically deters people from learning the rules in the first place.

Although setting a formal dinner table may seem complicated, it’s actually not that hard once you’ve armed yourself with the right tips. Even if you don’t have a dinner party or special occasion that calls for setting a formal table, learning how to do it is a skill every hostess should know—and furthermore, it better educates you on being a guest at a formal dinner. “It’s important for every adult to know the formalities of a proper place setting,” insists Jung Lee, the sought-after event planner and founder of Fête. “For me, it’s no different than knowing one’s manners. And the structure of a proper table setting isn’t a complicated math formula. It’s logical; once you know it, it’s hard to forget.”

Ready to jump in? Click through for the fundamentals and helpful tips on setting a formal dinner table.

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