Setting the table is more than just putting out plates and glasses, but also considering where the should be placed. It may appear straightforward, but there is an etiquette to follow when arranging utensils. The way you set your cutlery depends on which country you are in, the formality of the occasion, and the personal preference of the host. This article presents some essential tips on how to set the cutlery.

The Placement of Utensils

The placement of the utensils is influenced by the type of meal, its style, and its formality level. If you are serving a casual meal like a barbecue or breakfast, you may place all the cutlery at the right side of the plate. Place the fork to the left of the knife, and the teaspoon can be placed on the main plate, along with other dessert utensils. If you are hosting a formal dinner, the cutlery placement can become more complicated. The rule while setting the cutlery is to begin from the outside to the inside. The rule extends to the cutlery placement – the utensils required for the first course are placed at the outermost. This includes the salad fork, followed by the dinner fork. The dinner knife is then placed next to the dinner plate on the right-hand side. Place the soup spoon on top of the dinner plate and the dessert spoon and/or fork above the dinner plate.

The Size of the Cutlery

When it comes to cutlery, size matters! The larger the cutlery, the more formal it feels. Therefore, if you are hosting a fancy dinner, you can opt for generously sized cutlery sets. In contrast, if the event is casual, or it is a family meal, you can keep the cutlery set small and simple. Ensure that the cutlery sizes are proportionate to the plates’ size. For instance, if you are serving salad, use a smaller fork and spoon than the ones used for the main course. Lastly, small dessert spoons can replace regular spoons since they are designed to help with scooping dessert.

The Way to Hold Cutlery

One of the ways to determine what utensils to use at a formal event is the way of serving food. Guest should use the utensils as per the serving order of the food. However, there is a proper etiquette for handling the cutlery during the meal. Guests should hold the knife and fork at the bottom, and never extend their pinkie finger! When holding the fork and knife together, it should form an X shape when placed in the middle of the plate, when resting.

Final Note

When setting the cutlery, it is important to consider the entire table setting that should follow the theme of the event and how guests will be served. The cutlery arrangement is a crucial part of the table decoration that enhances the dining experience. By following these few tips on how to set the cutlery, you can create a lovely table setting that will impress your guests. However, it is important to remember that the most important thing is the food, and the company of those with whom you share it.

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