Table settings go beyond pretty decorations and the necessary cutlery for eating. It requires a lot of preparation. The host must know the protocol to ensure that his event meets the standards expected at an event according to the style and to be able to choose decorations without fear of failure. Below we explain what the traditional setting is like and the modern variations.
Traditional or formal formal assembly
This type of arrangement is the classic one for a formal event. It usually does not accept variations and only light colours are used. The glasses should always be made of crystal without any type of decoration.
Table
The table can be round or square, there are also long tables, T-shaped tables, etc. depending on the type and purpose of the event. For example, T- or U-shaped tables are ideal for conferences or corporate events.
How do you set up the table?
The table must be covered with various elements in order for it to be considered formal and meet the required standards. They are necessary depending on the type of event. In some rustic events, tablecloths are not used.
Molletón: a plush fabric placed on the table so that when placing dishes on the table, they do not rattle. It is placed before placing the tablecloth.
Tablecloth: must be white
Tablecloth: This can be any color depending on the event's decor. Sometimes additional table runners are used in addition to the tablecloth.
Crockery
Base plate: A flat plate should always be placed on which there will never be food.
Bread plate: should be on the left side, with the cutlery on top and in the center.
Coffee cup saucer: placed on the right side next to the spoons
Covered
Cutlery is used from the outside in. In traditional settings, silver-plated cutlery should be used.
Right side: steak knife, spoons
Left side: forks
Cutlery should be separated by 1cm from each other
Dessert cutlery: should be placed on the upper side of the plate. The fork should face the right side and the spoon should face the left side.
Cups
Red wine glass: should be on the right side parallel to the knife and between the dessert cutlery.
Water glass: This should be on the left side of the red wine glass, near the handle of the dessert spoon.
White wine glass: should be to the right of the wine glass, above the spoon.
Modern table setting
Now that you know the traditional table setting, you are ready to learn about the trends. The modern table setting is related to an informal table, which can vary. Nowadays, the table setting is not so strict and depending on the food, the amount of crockery and cutlery placed on the table can be varied.
Likewise, the base plate can be replaced with a nice tablecloth or plate made of a material such as metal or wood. Considering that the base plate will not be used, it does not matter if it is merely decorative or if a colorful tablecloth is used as a substitute.
It is also possible to mix the materials of the tableware, cutlery, napkins and glasses to give more life to our table. There are colored glasses or glasses with details, golden cutlery and all kinds of decorative variants that can make the difference to make your setting perfect.
It is also common to see centerpieces that have extra details besides flowers. Sometimes figures or candles are placed depending on the style and theme of the event. Antika is our best ally to find the ideal decoration for you, get a quote now and discover the options we have for you.
At AmbrosÃa we can help you set up your table.
EscrÃbenos a eventos@ambrosia.com.mx to book your event.
