We all have our own entertaining styles. Some prefer the formality of a table laden with floral arrangements and elegantly scrawled name cards, while others are partial to the simplicity of a sparse table stocked only with the necessities required for supping. With the holidays—and a plethora of dining opportunities—fast approaching, we’ve scoured our archives for ideas to help you set your table this season. Large or small, colorful or classic, you’ll be sure to find tablescape and place setting ideas that your guests will just eat up.
In a room all decked out for the holidays, the theme is carried over to the table. Festive flatware joins the everyday dishware, adding fun pops of holidays color. Such a high centerpiece is often a risky move, after all, you don’t want guests to feel isolated from one another, however, the tapered design of this piece gives clear visibility to all.
Place cards are a great way to rein in a crowd at a larger dinner party. Each guest is easily able to find their own space and there’s no race to secure a certain seat.
From the napkin rings to the salad fork, luxury is evident in every detail of this table setting. Neutral placemats, while failing to add color, do add texture to the glossy table and eliminate the need for a runner.
These fun place settings pop nicely against the dark wood of the table. The orange and blue colors were chosen in regards to the other décor used in the kitchen.
No matter the meal or time of day, place settings are always acceptable. This casual breakfast spread has all of the essentials at the ready: a bowl for fruit or cereal, and a plate that’s the perfect size for some fluffy scrambled eggs and toast.
Bring a little bit of nature inside with a classy floral arrangement. Keep the bloom a neutral one so that it complements whatever color flatware you decide to use for your gathering.
A formal table setting includes a variety of eating and drinking accessories including separate glasses for white wine, red wine, water and champagne, as well as a dinner fork, salad fork and fish fork, a dinner knife, fish knife and soup spoon.