Emily Post says it best, “Setting a table is not as difficult as it seems. The basic rule is: Utensils are placed in the order of use, that is, from the outside in. A second rule, with only a few exceptions is: forks go to the left of the plate, and knives and spoons go to the right.”  The table setting etiquette for a formal place setting has only one addition add on rule. “The one rule for a formal table is for everything to be geometrically spaced: the centerpiece at the exact center; the place settings at equal distances; and the utensils balanced. Beyond these placements, you can vary flower arrangements and decorations as you like.”

Who is setting the table at your wedding? Caterer? Staff at the venue? Event Designer? Aunt Sally and your cousins? It is important to be very clear with whoever is responsible for the table design at your wedding to understand how formal or informal you would like the tables to be set. When you spend some time thinking about the style in which you are serving your guests (buffett, plated family style etc), specific items on the menu and drink pairing – the proper dishes, flatware and stemware should all fall into place!

Tags: wedding centerpiece, wedding ceremony, wedding coordinator, wedding design, wedding reception

This entry was posted on Wednesday, December 9th, 2009 at 2:33 pm and is filed under Etiquette & Advice, Reception.