How to set the table. Holiday table setting: beautiful ideas for the home. Laying out cutlery

A holiday is a good mood, meeting with friends and family, fun and, of course, a festive table with mouth-watering and delicious dishes. Housewives try to cook exquisite and varied delicacies to please their household and guests. For the festive table, along with the taste of cooked dishes, the correct and beautiful table setting and table decoration are of great importance. Beautifully presented dishes and the use of various decorative attributes can make even an ordinary dinner unforgettable. And for a celebration, table setting is of great importance and can turn a feast into an aesthetic pleasure and create a special feeling of a holiday.

Table setting is the correct competent arrangement of appliances and dishes and decorative design, thanks to which you can create a homely cozy atmosphere or a pompous and elegant atmosphere corresponding to the celebration. The general decoration of the table should be decorated in a common unified style, not overloaded with unnecessary dining and decorative elements, and should correspond to the theme of the holiday.

For various celebrations, special decor elements are used, indicating compliance with a particular holiday. All these elements are additional decoration that decorates the table and creates a general mood. But there are basic components without which serving a festive table is impossible: cutlery, porcelain and glassware, textiles and paper products. These components should be correctly and conveniently placed on the table, creating a single harmonious style.

The basic rules for serving a festive table have been formed over many years and are currently the art of decorating a celebration. The selection of all components must be approached comprehensively and carefully, not being afraid to experiment and innovate. The hosts themselves decide how to lay the table so that it has not only an aesthetically attractive appearance, but is convenient for all guests seated at it.

Selection and placement of serving elements

Proper serving of the festive table implies the presence of all the necessary appliances, individually for each guest, so that he can accommodate and eat comfortably, with enough space for personal space. The main elements of serving are a tablecloth, napkins, plates, glasses and glasses, cutlery: forks, spoons and knives for various purposes.

Tablecloth selection

The color, size and shape of the tablecloth are of great importance. Since it takes up as much space as possible on the table and is the background of the overall decoration. The dimensions and shape should correspond to the parameters of the table, the optimal length of freely hanging edges is no more than 30 cm. The color of the tablecloth should be in harmony with the dishes and correspond to the solemnity of the event. A white, light or pastel tablecloth will make the festive table especially solemn and elegant. This tablecloth is suitable for any color tableware. White plates will accentuate an elegant setting, and any bright colors will stand out in contrast against a light background.

The intense colors of the tablecloth are more suitable for cozy feasts, creating a warm family atmosphere. A holiday for children should be bright and fabulous, so the tablecloth is chosen with a colorful rich pattern. To decorate and create an unusual color effect, you can use a runner or naperon, the look of a two-layer tablecloth makes the table design elegant and solemn. In the photo, table setting using naperon:

Plates and cutlery

The number of plates and utensils used depends on the planned meal changes. Competent serving involves arranging dishes in a sequence that is convenient for use in the phased serving of dishes. On the lower serving plate, place the plate for the main course, the next diner and the top one, if necessary, the soup one. A small pie plate, for bread, is set to the left, slightly higher from the main plates.
Cutlery is laid out on different sides of the plate. To the right is a place for spoons and knives, to the left - for forks. The sequence of cutlery corresponds to the serving of the dishes, the later the cutlery is used, the closer it is to the plates. A spoon for soup and a fork for snacks are laid out along the edges, a teaspoon and a fork for the main course are placed closer to the plates. If necessary, devices for fish or seafood are placed between them. To the right, with a blade to the plates, knives are placed, in the sequence of their use. Above the plates, parallel to the edge of the table, they lay out devices for dessert, they will be needed last and will not interfere with the feast.
To the right, above the plates, all the necessary glassware for drinks is displayed. The first place is a glass for water, and then the rest of the glass or crystal wine glasses and glasses.

All unnecessary or used utensils during the meal are removed from the table so as not to clutter up the free space.
The sequence of the correct arrangement of devices is presented in the table setting presentation:

Napkins - practical and beautiful

A special art is the use of napkins for table setting. In addition to practical application, napkins are an aesthetic decoration of the festive serving.

Usually paper and fabric napkins are used, they are selected, harmoniously combining in color with a tablecloth or dishes. Paper ones are used in the process of eating for hands and mouth, and fabric ones are laid out on their knees to protect clothes from getting food on them.
Napkins are placed in special holders, on a plate or in a glass. To make napkins become a holiday decoration, a large number of ways to fold and decorate them have been invented. From them you can make various figures: flowers, candles, peacocks, Christmas trees and many others, amazingly transforming the festive table and corresponding to the theme of the celebration.
A few simple ways to gradually fold napkins:

All table setting rules are based on the convenience and practicality of using appliances. By adhering to the basic criteria, you can create a cozy environment for guests. In the video, the master of serving the festive table talks in detail about the basic rules:

Decor to decorate various holidays

Decorative elements for various holidays, which serve mainly to decorate and create a festive atmosphere, are very diverse. For any festive table, it is appropriate to use candles and flowers. Candles create a cozy charming atmosphere. The use of flowers makes the festive table elegant and delicate.

Birthday is a long-awaited and special holiday for every person. On this day, I want to gather all my close friends and relatives at one table and spend the evening in a warm atmosphere. As soon as such plans appear in my head, the need to draw up the right menu immediately arises. What should be the festive table for a birthday? This question baffles many, forcing them to look for alternative options for celebrating, excluding a feast. In fact, everything is quite easy if you think over the dishes in advance.

How to correctly calculate the number of dishes

First you need to decide how many guests you have to feed and how generous your table will be. First courses for banquets are usually not used, with the exception of some exotic oriental soups. However, even in this case, they are more problems than good. Stop for appetizers, entrees and dessert.

If you are not planning a large-scale celebration, you can completely get by with an exclusively sweet table. To date, there are many excellent pastry shops offering cakes and pastries for every taste. You can go the other way, completely eliminating the dessert from the menu. In this case, you will have to pay more attention to the main dish.

Depending on the number of guests, calculate the volume of future treats. The easiest way is not to make a mistake when serving dishes in portions, as in a restaurant. The only negative is that you have to pretty much run around the guests until everything is in place. If this does not suit you, act the old fashioned way - cook dishes with a margin. Remember: it's better to have something left than to have everyone sit at an empty table.

Planning a holiday menu

In some families and companies, it is customary to cook, if not the same, then very similar dishes from year to year. Whether this is good or bad, one can argue endlessly. Nevertheless, you will definitely know that everyone will leave full and satisfied, and guests will not faint from the sight of exotic treats. So, the standard menu for all occasions of solemn feasts:

1. Appetizers and salads for birthday

Snacks are prepared quickly, do not require special investments and are always in demand on the table. Offer your guests a wide variety of treats and prepare light meals for all tastes.

Mandatory set

Prepare a separate plate for a meat appetizer, thinly slice sausage, ham, boiled pork or any other similar ingredients. Do the same with cheese and vegetables. At the same time, the more types of this or that product you use, the richer and more festive your table will look.

Korean cuisine

At every vegetable market, you can easily find a stall with Korean snacks. They favorably decorate the feast and dilute its usual filling. Be sure to take Korean carrots, cabbage, pork ears, soybeans and any other delicacies you like. Divide everything into small bowls.

Pickles

Search your pantries for pickles, tomatoes, zucchini, etc. Such snacks will not remain untouched.

Salads on the table - simple and tasty

Salads will not only help to feed the guests, but also, with due diligence, will make the table brighter. Do not forget that food should be not only tasty, but also beautiful!

You can use the good old "Olivier", salad with crab sticks and "Caesar". However, "Herring under a fur coat" also has not been canceled. For those who do not like the fishy taste of Shuba, cook the Bride. The recipe is almost identical, but will suit even the most whimsical gourmets.

Very easy to prepare salad with ham and pineapple. Buy already diced canned pineapples. Cut ham, boiled eggs and hard cheese (also in cubes) to them yourself. Add crackers (you can from a pack) and season with mayonnaise.

You can surprise guests with "sea" salads - shrimp, mussels and squid are perfect, as well as lightly salted fish. Seafood goes well with vegetables, eggs and hard cheese. As a dressing, use low-fat mayonnaise, sour cream or olive oil.

Vegetable salads like vinaigrette make a light snack and are sure to please vegetarians. And for the vinaigrette in the company, prepare "Spring" and "Greek". For the first, use all the greens that come to hand: dill, parsley, sorrel, green onions. Add a boiled egg and radish to them, season with sour cream. "Greek" is an improved model of the well-known cucumber and tomato salad. Cheese, olives and sunflower oil are added to it.

2. Main course

To begin with, you should think about what your guests like more - meat or fish. Please note that the dish has a decent appearance. Try to give it a beautiful shape, bake to an appetizing golden crust and additionally decorate.

Without meat during the feast, it will be bad, so be sure to cook at least one main course with this ingredient. The easiest way to deal with chicken. You can bake mouth-watering legs and wings or put the sirloin on chops.

Beef and pork will take longer, but steaks or cutlets are great for a holiday menu. As a delicacy, you can cook duck with apples or veal medallions.

For many "home" cooks, cooking fish seems not the most pleasant pastime, so the fish menu for the holidays is not often chosen. Of course, you will have to spend extra strength and nerves on removing bones, cleaning and cutting. Nevertheless, stuffed pike, baked carp or battered pike perch will be a real feat on your part and will surely be remembered by everyone present.

Tricks for the lazy:

• To minimize the time spent in the kitchen, you can use ready-made dishes. To get started, pay attention to the grilled chicken, which can be found in any supermarket. It will look great on the table, and all you have to do is divide the bird into portions.
• Not the worst option and home delivery of food. Choose from several varieties of pizza and order it right when your guests arrive. Japanese food is a bit more expensive. Sushi and rolls are a great option for a holiday. Calculate that everyone has enough of both.

Separately think about the side dish. Of course, it is better to leave various cereals in the daily diet. Potatoes are suitable for the holiday: mashed potatoes, fries, young ones with dill, rice with vegetables will look beautiful.

3. Dessert

As a dessert, it is most common to use a cake. Especially in honor of the birthday it can be decorated with burning candles. But one cake will not be enough for you. Be sure to put vases with sweets or cakes on the table, a large plate of fruit.

Although it is not necessary to go to the store for holiday goodies. After all, a birthday is a great occasion to please friends with homemade cakes. Even the simplest hand-made pie will make an indelible impression, and what can we say about cakes, baskets or a Napoleon cake!

If you have calculated the menu so that everyone is already quite full during the main course, prepare a light and fresh dessert. For this, a fruit salad seasoned with honey or sour cream, panna cotta (cream and vanilla dessert) or any kind of cocktails (you can use milk, you can also alcohol) are suitable.

4. Drinks

When choosing drinks, consider the preferences of all guests. Having only strong alcohol on the table can put some guests in an awkward position. Make sure you have wine and champagne. Don't forget non-alcoholic drinks too. Put several types of juice and lemonade on the table, and offer coffee and tea for dessert.

Buffet or self-service delights

If you do not plan to get hung up on constant sitting at the table, but prefer a more active celebration and want to entertain your guests with fun, offer your guests a buffet table.

The main rule to follow is that all dishes should be divided into small portions that can be taken and eaten immediately. Various snacks will be an excellent option: sandwiches on skewers, chopped vegetables and fruits, cheese and meat plates. You can immediately put sweets on the table. It can be eclairs and sweets or any other delicacies. At the same time, setting the table for your birthday will take you much less time, and besides, you don’t have to constantly bring and take away plates.

As for the main dish, here you have to show imagination. Your guests will have to take more food with their hands, otherwise cutlery will be in all corners of the apartment. Baskets with various fillings (meat, fish, mushrooms) can help you out, you can also cook delicious pancakes (it is better to cut them into small neat pieces). If desired, chicken legs are also suitable. To do this, wrap the bone beautifully in advance with a napkin.

Put all drinks on the table immediately. Uncork bottles of wine in advance so that guests do not have to waste time looking for a corkscrew. Do not forget to place glasses and saucers in a conspicuous place.

holiday picnic

An excellent option for celebrating is always going out into nature. Especially if you were lucky to be born in the warm season. Hot birthday meals cooked over a fire will be both appropriate and delicious.

Of course, the menu is planned before the trip. Some dishes are best brought ready-made, while others will need blanks:

1. Marinate your BBQ meat ahead of time. It can be steaks, barbecue or all the same wings. Remember that chicken marinates quickly enough, but pork and beef will have to be prepared almost a day in advance.
2. Genuine delight among your guests will cause pilaf cooked by you personally. Do not forget to bring a cauldron and plenty of oriental spices with you.
3. It is better not to take mayonnaise salads with you, or season them immediately before eating, otherwise they may let the juice out and lose half of the taste. As an appetizer, various sandwiches are excellent.
4. You can cook a side dish at home, or bake potatoes in coals. Meat fried over a fire is quite fatty in itself, so fresh or baked vegetables are best suited for it.
5. In addition to the standard set of drinks, do not forget to take plenty of water with you. With active recreation in nature, everyone will definitely want to drink. In addition, you may need to rinse your hands.

Decoration of the table and dishes to create the right atmosphere

Do not forget that in itself creates a holiday atmosphere. Do not be stingy to get the best tablecloth and expensive service. Grate glasses and cutlery to a shine in advance. Put a beautiful napkin on a plate for each guest. Ideally, use cloth napkins that guests will use to cover their knees while eating. Try to make some original figures out of them. If it doesn't work, just fold it in a wave or a neat square.

Do not forget to add solemnity to your dishes. Even a simple bunch of greens will add appeal to the treats. You can purchase a special knife for curly cutting in advance. Then banal cucumbers and tomatoes will turn into real works of art. In addition, salads can be laid out in any original shape that comes to mind - from a hedgehog to the Eiffel Tower.

Try to create a holiday for yourself first. Even outdoors or in a restaurant. A few balloons and confetti bows are sure to cheer you up and your loved ones.

10 simple tips on how to make your holiday tasty and enjoyable:

Setting the table for your birthday on your own may not be the easiest task. But if you approach the solution of the problem with soul and creativity, even the preparation process itself can bring a lot of positive emotions. In addition, this is another reason to show off your culinary skills and hospitality to your friends.

And the art of table setting has a thousand-year history. Each era had its own feast culture. In addition, different peoples had their own ways of decorating the table and serving dishes that corresponded to national culture and traditions. And today there are a lot of types of serving, so let's try to understand only the basic rules for table setting according to etiquette and its design.

The main elements of table setting are: tablecloth, dishes, cutlery, napkins and various decor. In order for all these items to be placed correctly on the table, you need to follow some rules, as well as a certain sequence in actions.

On the eve of the feast, decide on the number and type of dishes, napkins, cutlery, etc. - this will depend on the number and type of dishes, the number of guests, the reason for the feast.

We serve the table according to etiquette

Tablecloth

E e is chosen depending on the type of feast, the color scheme of the dishes, the interior of the room - it should be in harmony with the curtains and furniture upholstery. Usually light shades are preferred. The white tablecloth looks especially elegant.

However, tablecloths can also be colored - plain or with a pattern along the edge. But keep in mind that too colorful and bright tablecloths will tire your eyes and distract from the dishes on the table. If you are using a dark tablecloth, match it with light-colored dishes.

According to the rules of etiquette, the tablecloth should be sized to cover the legs of the table (rectangular or square), and its ends should evenly hang 25–30 cm from all sides, but at the same time not fall below the level of the seats.

Spread the tablecloth on the table as follows: open it, then take it from one side by the ends, lift it up, shake it and lower it sharply down. At the same time, a layer of air is formed between the table and the canvas - it facilitates the further alignment of the tablecloth. Never stretch the canvas and do not pull it by the corners!

• If the table is polished, place an oilcloth under the tablecloth.
• Give preference to fabric tablecloths, especially from natural materials - they will create a truly homely or festive atmosphere.
• Whatever tablecloth you choose, remember the main rule - it must be perfectly clean and ironed.

Cutlery and crockery

After the tablecloth is covered, they begin to lay out the plates and cutlery.

Dishes

Consider the etiquette of arranging plates:

• Snack plate - should be located opposite each chair and at a distance of about 2 cm from the edge of the table.
• Bread or pie plate - it is placed to the left of the snack plate at a distance of 5–15 cm.
• If several dishes are provided, you need to put a dining room under the snack plate.

During the feast, when changing dishes, the plates are replaced in a timely manner.

Cutlery

Place the spoon and knife on the right, and the fork on the left. The dessert spoon is located behind the plate - the handle to the right.

According to the rules of etiquette, they first begin to use the cutlery from the outer edge, replacing them with cutlery towards the plate as the dishes change.

Try to keep the distance between the appliances and the plate, as well as between adjacent appliances - it should be 0.5–1.0 cm.

Drinkware

Glasses, glasses, wine glasses are designed for only one type of drink. The wine glass is on the right, and the water glass is on the left. Usually they are placed in one line, but not more than three items. In the case of a full serving, the drinkware is placed in two rows.

Adviсe:

Before serving, be sure to thoroughly wash and wipe all cutlery - they should not have smudges and streaks. Buff them to a high shine with rough cotton towels or multi-layered paper towels.

Napkins

They play an important role in table setting. There are a lot of options for folding napkins - this is a real art, which you can talk about a lot. Let's just focus on the basic rules.

• The material of napkins is chosen depending on the type of feast.
• Cloth napkins (made of cotton or linen) are more suitable for a festive table, sometimes they can be replaced with paper ones - in this case they are placed under the right edge of the plate.
• The color of napkins can be any - to match the tablecloth, candles or flower arrangements on the table, although contrasting colors are also allowed.

Appliances with spices

They are placed at the final stage of serving. Usually these devices are installed on special stands in the central part of the table. There must be salt and pepper on the table, as well as, in accordance with the menu, mustard, vinegar, vegetable oil and other seasonings.

Decor elements

The choice of decorative ornaments depends, first of all, on the occasion of the feast: business meeting, wedding, anniversary or birthday, New Year's holidays and so on. And also from the style in which the apartment is made. For example, red napkins with a turquoise color will look strange (you can read about this beautiful shade.)

For a dinner party, it is better to stick to a neutral style in the design, and if close people or friends come to visit you, the design style can be more free.

Figurines of the bride and groom, doves, as well as items in the form of wedding rings or hearts will suit the wedding table.

For a birthday, create bright accents with the help of decor, and if the birthday is for children, use images of characters from your favorite cartoons.

On the New Year's table, compositions of coniferous branches, Christmas tree decorations, tinsel, candles, etc., as well as figurines and New Year's souvenirs, will look beautiful.

The decoration of any table, regardless of the type of feast, will be flowers - bouquets or compositions of fresh flowers, as well as floristic arrangements of dried flowers. However, when using them as decoration, pay attention to some points:

• make sure none of the invitees are allergic to flowers;
• do not choose plants with a strong aroma, it will mix with the smell of dishes or interrupt it;
• place a vase of flowers at some distance from cutlery and dishes so that pollen or petals do not accidentally fall into the guests' plate.

Adviсe:

All decor elements should be combined not only with each other, but also with the overall interior.

Do not choose too high decorative elements - they should not prevent guests from seeing each other and communicating freely.

Do not use too much decor - remember that everything needs a measure.

The festive table should not only abound with delicious dishes and delicacies. Try to arrange it in an original and correct way, because a beautifully set table is an indicator of your hospitality and good taste.

Proper table setting, corresponding to the event, occasion and time of day of the feast, will allow guests to feel satisfaction from both the event and the meal itself.

Proper table setting not only emphasizes the delicate taste of the hostess, but also shows her respect for guests and household members.

The table is served taking into account the occasion, menu, theme and time of day. At the same time, the goal of any serving is to provide guests with a comfortable and pleasant pastime and convenient access to all the dishes presented.

Basic rules for table setting with cutlery at home

First of all, you need to choose and lay tablecloth. For rectangular table take a tablecloth 50 - 60 cm longer than the tabletop. If table round or oval- 100 - 110 cm wider than the diameter of the countertop.

Calculate the length of the tablecloth so that its edges are 30-50 cm below the bottom surface of the table.

For a homemade dinner you will need plain white tablecloth, but other soothing pastel colors will do.

IMPORTANT: It is good if the color and texture of the tablecloth is in harmony with the color and texture of the curtains, upholstery of sofas and armchairs in the room. In any case, the tablecloth should be ironed flawlessly.

When the table is set arrange appliances. First of all - glass and porcelain plates and dishes. After them - knives, spoons, forks and other necessary devices.

The last put glass and crystal glasses, glasses, goblets.

The scheme of the correct sorting of the festive table

Lay out your appliances like this:

• any knives put on the right, so that the cutting part is facing the plate
• tablespoon put also on the right, so that its convex part is at the bottom
• forks after serving the table should be on the left, while their teeth will be directed upwards
• dessert spoon should be behind the plate, its handle is turned to the right

IMPORTANT: When serving cutlery, it is necessary to take into account that they will be used from the outer edge and change items depending on the serving of new dishes. For convenience, objects should be placed at a distance of about 1 cm from each other.

Basic rules for table setting with dishes at home

Plates are placed on the table first, and glasses, piles, glasses are the last.

Arrange the plates in this order:

• medium plate(snack bar) place in such a way that 2.5 - 3 cm remain to the edge of the table.
• Pirozhkovuyu (bread) plate position on the left, leaving about 10 cm.
• If you plan to change dishes, put under the diner small dinner plate before laying a napkin under it.

IMPORTANT: Depending on the type of first course, choose a plate for it. If cream soup or broth will be served - take a bowl, if thick soup or borscht - a large deep plate.

wine glass put on the right water glass- on the left, but they must be in one line. Two rows of drinkware are allowed if a grand event is being prepared with a large variety of dishes and drinks.

IMPORTANT: Tableware must be prepared in advance. To do this, it is washed, dried, carefully wiped with a towel. The main thing is that the dishes look perfect before serving. Divorces, streaks, cloudy or opaque appearance of it is unacceptable.

Folding napkins for table setting

Napkins- an essential attribute of any feast. No matter how beautifully folded paper or linen napkins are, do not forget that they, first of all, serve for the convenience of guests.

Therefore, any napkin should be located in the most accessible place, and even the most intricate napkin figure should be easy to unfold.

The drawings and videos show how to quickly and beautifully make a flat or three-dimensional figure from a napkin.

IMPORTANT: Volumetric figures from fabric napkins will keep their shape well, and the napkins themselves can be easily washed off dirt if they are starched.

To starch a linen napkin:

• In 0.5 liters of cold water, add 1.5 tbsp. starch and stir until you get a homogeneous solution of a cloudy white color that does not contain lumps.
• Boil 1 liter of water, pour into the prepared solution and mix.
• Cool and strain through cheesecloth.
• Dip clean, dry wipes into the solution and wring out a little.
• Hang the napkins to dry without using clothespins.
• Start ironing between two towels as soon as all the water drains from the napkins.

IMPORTANT: According to the rules of etiquette, beautifully folded napkins should be at solemn feasts. For other events, napkins can simply be placed neatly in a glass or coaster.

Table setting rules for breakfast according to etiquette

To properly set the table for breakfast, follow the following scheme:

• Arrange your dinner plates.
• Set out cups and glasses.
• Place a teaspoon on a saucer.
• Set an egg stand on a snack plate, do not forget about a special spoon.
• On the snack plate, also put a deep plate for porridge.
• Put a coffee pot or tea with a hot drink in the middle of the table.
• Serve sandwiches or croissants on a large flat dish.

IMPORTANT: On a breakfast table, a saucer for jam or honey, a butter dish, a salt shaker and a sugar bowl would be appropriate.

Table setting rules for dinner according to etiquette

There are several options for setting the table for dinner, since the dinner itself can consist of a different number of dishes:

• Place a small plate on a table covered with a tablecloth.
• Place a deep plate on a shallow plate - for the first course.
• Add an appetizer plate if you are serving dishes that cannot be eaten from shared dishes.
• To the left of the plates, place a fork, to the right - a soup spoon and a knife, and the knife should be closer to the plates, and the spoon should be closer to the edge of the table.
• Decorate your dinner plate with beautifully folded napkins.
• In the center of the table, place a salt shaker, vessels with the necessary spices and seasonings.
• Place wine glasses and water glasses on the right and left, respectively.
• Put a bottle with an alcoholic drink on the table in advance uncorked.
• Fresh flowers in the center of the table will decorate and complement even an imperfect table setting.
• Serve the oil in a butter dish.
• First, serve hot in a tureen.

Table setting rules for dinner etiquette

Dinner, whether it is a formal or quiet family dinner, is always associated with warmth and comfort. Therefore, it is important for the hostess not only to properly set the table, but also to complement the serving with the appropriate details.

• Pick up a tablecloth (suitable with a small pattern).
• Place two small plates one inside the other, and to the left of them put a plate for bread.
• To the left of the plates, place the forks with their teeth up, to the right - the knives with the blades to the plate.
• Place the dishes for alcoholic beverages to the right of the plates, for water - to the left.

IMPORTANT: Table setting for dinner is similar to lunch setting, but differs in the absence of a deep plate and a spoon for the first course. This dish has no place on the table in the evening.

Beautiful festive table setting: rules

Festive table usually they cover not only for members of their family, but also for invited guests.

There are several rules for serving a festive table, following which any hostess will be able to show her ability to meet guests at the highest level:

1. Tablecloth for the festive table should be perfectly clean and ironed. It is advisable to spread a thick cloth on the table under the tablecloth, which will avoid the ringing of dishes in the event of an accidental fall, and also protect the table surface from spilled liquids. However, it is permissible not to cover a table made of expensive wood at all.
2. Crockery and cutlery, which are used for serving, must be from the same set. It is unacceptable to serve a festive table with dishes of different colors and sizes. The cleanliness and brilliance of dishes must be impeccable.
3. How plates and appliances need to be laid out only in the order in which the hostess plans to serve the dishes.
4. Shouldn't be on the table. excess utensils and cutlery. Items "just in case" will not be needed, but only spoil the look of the table.
5. All alcoholic drinks are served on the table in pre-opened bottles, but champagne is opened immediately before serving.
6. For each guest, one cloth and several paper sheets should be prepared. napkins.
7. First course the hostess pours the guests into plates from the tureen. Someone from the guests or household can help her serve filled plates. You need to do this by approaching everyone present at the table from the right side.
8. Second course guests themselves put on a plate from a common dish.

IMPORTANT: The following order of serving dishes at the festive table is generally accepted: appetizer, first course, fish dish, meat, sweet dessert and fruit, tea or coffee.

The presence of thematic decor in the center of the festive table will emphasize the efforts of the hostess and give the feast coziness and warmth.

Rules for serving a banquet table

Banquets arranged in honor of some major holiday, such as an anniversary or wedding. The very concept of "banquet table" implies that the event will be held in a specially rented banquet hall, the guests will be served by waiters.

Banquet attributes are:

1. various decorations (balloons, bows, special drapery)
2. entertainment for guests (live music, performances, toastmaster or host of the holiday)

Banquet table should correspond to the situation, occasion and general mood. The main rules for its serving:

• Are used folding tables, which are arranged depending on the number of guests, the features of the hall, the type of service.
• Tables are set white banquet tablecloths, leaving descents from the edges of about 25 cm.
• First of all, arrange small plates. They are arranged in such a way that the distance between adjacent plates is at least 60 cm, but not more than 80 cm, and the distance to the edge of the table does not exceed 1–2 cm. Snack plates are placed on top, and patties on the left.
• On right put knives, facing the blades towards the plates. All appliances located on the right: a table knife, a fish knife, a table spoon, a snack knife.
• To the left of the plate: dining fork, fish fork, two snack forks.
• Dessert fork and knife placed on a plate.
• Also behind the plate are glass, to the right of the wine glass - glasses for stronger drinks.
• Cloth napkins put on plates, after giving them a beautiful look.
• Low flowerpots with natural or artificial flowers placed evenly in the center of the table.
• It can also serve as a table decoration. vases with fruit and grapes.

IMPORTANT: For a banquet table, every little thing is important, so serving takes a very long time.

Table setting rules in a restaurant

The restaurant has two serving options:

1. banquet
2. preliminary (corresponding to the order from the menu) with dosing

The name of the serving "preliminary" speaks for itself - the serving will require addition after the guests choose the dishes and place an order.

Items that must be present on the guest table according to the rules pre-serving:

• table knife, plate, fork
• wine glass
• cloth napkin
• additional accessories (spices, folding menu cards, table number in the form of a plate, ashtray, etc.)

Dessert table setting rules

Dessert time is the end of the main feast. All dessert appliances are served shortly before the dessert itself is served. A fork is placed to the left of the dessert plate, a spoon to the right.

Dessert is served on serving plates. If it is chilled, it can be served in bowls or bowls.

Sweet table setting rules

Serving a sweet table has no fundamental differences. They put a plate, put cutlery in front of it. A deep plate is placed on top of a flat plate - for liquid sweets.

To the right of the plates are wine glasses and glasses. On the shelves you can lay out fruits or various cakes.

Before inviting guests to the table, it is covered with a tablecloth, preferably in soft colors.

A tea cup larger than a coffee cup is placed on a saucer. The spoon is placed on the saucer. A dessert plate is placed to the left of the cup. For sugar, special tongs are used.

Tea table setting rules

The main rules for serving a tea table are the same as the basic serving rules described earlier, however, a few recommendations will help create a more comfortable environment for guests invited to a tea party:

• The color and style of the tea set should match the color and texture of the tablecloth.
• It is desirable that a composition of fresh flowers be present on the table.
• If a classic Russian tea party is expected, it would be appropriate and at the same time original to serve tea directly from the samovar, which is placed to the left of the hostess of the house or set on a separate table.
• The milkman serves milk for tea. It is advisable to put the milk jug on a plate so as not to accidentally spill its contents on the tablecloth.
• Cake, roll or pie cut into portions. Fruits are placed in vases, sweets - in candy bowls. Berries are laid out on bowls or plates.
• Alcoholic drinks are allowed at the tea table.

IMPORTANT: Tea drinking is a time of laid-back intimate conversations. Even if the tea table setting is not perfect, the positive attitude of the guests and the kind cozy atmosphere will brighten up the evening and make small flaws invisible.

Rules for serving a buffet table

buffet are held at official receptions, corporate holidays, presentations.

The peculiarity of its implementation is that many people can attend the event, but neither a large hall nor special financial costs are required for this.

IMPORTANT: They arrange a buffet in the evening, it lasts a maximum of 2 hours. The purpose of the event is to communicate, make acquaintances. It is considered bad manners to be one of the first to eat and the last to leave the buffet table.

Features of table setting for a buffet table:

• Tables are covered with white tablecloths and arranged in such a way that guests move freely around the hall. A separate table is prepared for dirty dishes.
• There are no chairs, as during the buffet table guests themselves come to the tables and choose food.
• Buffet menu - snacks, light salads. Drinks allowed are champagne and wine.
• Wine glasses and stacks of plates are placed at the ends of the table, forks are placed next to the plates in special stands. Guests will take their own dishes.
• The main thing is to leave enough space around the edges of the tables.
• Napkins are placed in holders and spaced evenly.
• Be sure to decorate the tables and the hall with flowers, fruit baskets.
• Water and juice are poured into glasses, alcohol is left in bottles, having previously uncorked them.
• The menu for the buffet table consists of dishes that can be easily put on your plate: canapes, sandwiches and light snacks.

Birthday table setting

Birthday- such a holiday that can be celebrated both in a narrow circle of relatives and closest people, and in a noisy company of friends, buddies and good acquaintances.

Depending on what kind of holiday the birthday person wants to arrange, you should choose the venue, menu, type of service.

• If scheduled quiet family dinner, then either a festive table or a table for dinner is served.
• If the birthday passes in the cafe or a restaurant with a prearranged menu, a banquet table is served.
• Those who decided on their birthday visit a restaurant, but did not pre-book a table and certain dishes, a standard restaurant preliminary serving will wait.

Table setting rules for children in pictures

From childhood, you need to teach the child the basics of etiquette. In adulthood, this knowledge will come in handy more than once. So that when studying the rules of behavior at the table and the basics of serving it, the baby does not have any difficulties, you can conduct classes in a playful way and use special pictures.

Knowing and putting into practice the rules and features of table setting, you can feel confident when inviting guests or setting the table for a family celebration.

Joint feasts at a cozy, beautifully decorated table will bring positive emotions to the hosts and their guests, and perhaps such feasts will turn into a good good family tradition.

Video: How to properly set the table?

Of course, there are some rules of etiquette, the observance of which is strictly mandatory. But the decisive factor is taste and creativity, which ultimately determine the aesthetics. served table .

Table decoration

Serving a festive table is the basis for any holiday and creating a festive mood for guests. Compliance with the rules of serving is necessary for any celebration. Beautiful table setting is the key to the success of the entire celebration. Over the years, a huge number of formulas and rules have been deduced, which must be followed when decorating a table. Hastily arranged plates and glasses, cutlery, appropriate only for certain occasions - this is the wrong approach. You need to know a lot of nuances, thanks to which you can bring your event to the highest level.

First of all, the theme of the holiday is taken into account. Children's or adult birthdays, weddings, romantic dinners or just gatherings with friends - any occasion requires a clear thought of the future table. To make dinner unforgettable, just delicious food will not be enough. You need to dress up the hall in which the event is held, decorate the table and convey a festive mood to your guests. The main thing in this matter is not to overdo it, since a table cluttered with dishes and decorations can cause a completely opposite impression, show the hostess's lack of taste. The main goal is to create a positive impression on the guests both about the holiday and about the hostess herself.

Spices must necessarily have the correct location on the table, because everyone has their own taste and, perhaps, guests will want to make up for the lack of pepper, salt or vinegar in the served dish. Spices should be placed in several places on the table so that everyone can easily get them.

The last thing to put on the table is snacks.

Advice! Vases with flowers (low) will be a lovely decoration for a dinner, both family and business.

Dishes

Plates often set the tone for the entire table, so their choice is approached very responsibly. A formal reception requires the purchase of new tableware. There are special rules according to which plates should be placed on the table:

You need to arrange the plates, immediately considering that the place will be needed for salad bowls, vases and appliances.

Cutlery

During a typical lunch, each of us uses a minimum of cutlery, laying them out in random order. But a festive event requires a special layout and a certain number of forks and knives.

When serving, the knife must be placed with the blade towards the plate and on the right side. Knives, as a rule, use several, so their location at the plate is very important. The closest should be a table knife, and the farthest - for snacks, between them put a knife for fish.

The spoon turns upside down and lies between the knives. The fork is placed on the left side of the plate. The sequence of laying out the forks is the same as that of the knives: canteen, fish and diner. They are placed upside down at a distance of half a centimeter from the plate.

Dessert utensils may also be required. Put them in front of the plate in the following order: knife, fork and spoon.

Glassware

Glassware plays a practical and decorative role. The shape of glasses can be assessed by some guests as convenient, while others simply will not be able to hold them in their hands. Such dishes also need to be able to properly arrange:

As mentioned earlier, all glassware must be polished to a shine.

Use of napkins for the festive table

Snow-white, brightly decorated napkins will add special solemnity to the table. You can make some kind of figure out of them or just fold it four times. You can choose napkins as the same color as the tablecloth, or contrasting with it. It is very good when napkins not only match the color of the tablecloth, but also combine with its texture. Now you can buy special sets of kitchen textiles, which include everything you need to set the table in the right style.

Usually a starched napkin is placed on top of a plate or to the right of it. Cloth napkins are designed for decorative purposes, they do not blot the mouth. For this there are paper.

Is it worth keeping the table setting in one color?

… And why not match the color of the serving to the tone of your eyes?

Serving in one scale is perfect for a romantic dinner. As a rule, it will not work to set the table in one, “pure” color. But the use of several shades - always by the way. Red napkins, glasses and candles will perfectly support the duet with a snow-white tablecloth and the same plates.

It will be interesting to look at the table. It is perfect for a home dinner and gatherings with friends in nature. In addition, much for this option is done by hand, for example, napkin holders with intricate shells.

tones - under the natural colors of nature, or, conversely, use contrast techniques. Both the first and second options will leave a lasting impression on your guests!

In addition, table setting "in nature" does not require special embellishment - all the beauties, as they say, are around. It uses either domestic style or the contrast of nature and the "artificiality" of complex decorative techniques. Each event is considered individually, and the choice of dishes and other attributes of the festive table is also considered.