Setting The Table

Thanksgiving Day dinner is a wonderful time to get together, enjoy meal and share togetherness. There is a way in which to set the dining table for any special occasion, the image above shows you how to correctly set a place setting.  But before we get to how and where, first and foremost, if you have good china, bring it out!  Today is the day for the good stuff.  If you don’t have special dinnerware ( or you have many different patterns ) a unique way of making a table interesting is to use a different pattern at each place setting, or alternate.  Once you know what your using start with a nice table cloth that compliments your room and planned place settings, and please… linen napkins ( please no paper ). Next you’ll need a center piece… no major rules except arrangements should be no higher than your elbow on the table to your closed fist, you need to be able to see who is sitting across from you.  perhaps several smaller arrangements will work better for you? Go for it, but remember… More is more and we are looking to make an impact here.  Now your ready to set the place settings, don’t have a need for a soup spoon? Leave it out. Not serving fish, skip that too but your table should contain both wine glasses and regular glasses for those drinking non-alcoholic beverages or water.  Water is best in a serving vessel at the table, but fill glasses before guests sit down so you don’t have to refill as often.  Finally, use candles at the table.  Scented candles are nice but don’t use them at the dinner table, ever.  Let your guests enjoy the food without confusing the senses with additional aromas. Oh, and don’t forget to set the bar a day or two in advance so you won’t have to worry about that on the big day.  Place wines on the table if you are planning a buffet, if food is coming to the table, remember your the host and keep your guests glasses full but keep the wine on the bar.  Now try and relax and enjoy the holiday.