Setting Your Holiday Table
Halloween is behind us, as is another presidential election, and now Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Since the holiday is fast approaching, it's a good idea to start thinking about what you'd like to serve for dinner, what guests will be coming, and taking a good look at your tableware and kitchenware supplies.
Many people love to have an extravagant dinner, and they set their table with beautiful linens, and their finest crystal, silverware, and china. Still other families prefer a more laid-back dinner experience with fun decorations and their family and friends bring over their favorite dishes. Whether you're throwing a lavish event or a casual one, here are some simple tips that will help your holiday get off to a smoother start.
Let's start with the wineglasses - are you planning to serve both red and white wines? Some suggest supplying both types of glasses for each guest, though many say this isn't necessary, especially for space considerations. It's a good idea to set the table with a large water glass for each guest. You'll want to place glassware above the knives, with the water glass closer to the center of the place, at a diagonal from the wineglass.
With the plate denoting the center of each place setting, try to allow for about 20 inches of space for each guest if you can. You'll want to put the spoons and knives on the right-hand side of the plate, sharp edge turned towards the plate, with the forks placed on the left side. If you're planning on adding bread plates, these are generally situated above and to the left of the fork.
While tradition seems to recommend seating your guests in a "boy-girl-boy-girl" style, you'll find this rule is not always easy to follow. You can keep it in mind for the fun of it, especially if you're creating place cards or unique decorations at each setting - it will surely liven up the dinner party atmosphere.
Mostly, just keep in mind how much smoother your holiday gatherings will go it you handle the smaller details days or weeks in advance. As soon as you can, tally up the guest list and figure out the holiday menu in advance so you can purchase various ingredients ahead of time. You might want to pad the menu amounts to allow for some last minute guests. At the very least there will be some delicious leftovers to enjoy after the holiday. Take a little time now to shine up your silverware and glasses. Take a good look at the state of your serving bowls and dinner dishes to make sure you have the right quantity and sets to complete your table without it looking too mix and match for your holiday table.
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