This article was contributed by Bedside Manor. Find them online and in the Specialty Shops at Southpark.
Worrying about setting the table for the upcoming holiday meals? A festive table doesn’t necessarily require a “holiday” theme. If you don’t have a vision of autumn gourds or boughs of holly, not to worry. Your tableware itself can provide all the decoration you need. Turn your attention to sparkling crystal, polished silver, gleaming china and beautiful, lustrous linens.
The foundation of every beautifully appointed table is the tablecloth. Both pretty and practical, a tablecloth can protect your table from spills and scratches (we also recommend a heat resistant, water repellent table pad).
How to choose your tablecloth? First, start with the correct size. Tablecloth size should always be based on your table dimensions.
♦ The rule of thumb is that casual occasions call for a tablecloth with a 6-8 inch drop (from table edge to tablecloth hem).
♦ A formal event requires a tablecloth with a 15 inch drop.
♦ Two simple formulas will help to identify the correct tablecloth size. First: table width + the drop on one side + the drop on the other side = table cloth width. Then: table length + the drop on one side + the drop on the other side = tablecloth length.
♦ A table runner placed on top of a tablecloth should have a matching length.
♦ For a round table, measure the diameter of your tabletop and add twice the desired drop. [Pro tip – don’t forget to figure in extra leaves]
Size also matters when it comes to napkins. Here is a quick guide for approximate sizes:
Cocktail napkins – 6×6 inches
Hors d’oeuvres napkins – 13×13 inches
Lunch napkins – 18×18 to 20×20 inches
Dinner napkins – 22×22 to 24×24 inches
Buffet napkins – 27×27 inches
Now that you’ve gotten all of the sizing sorted out…let the fun begin.
There are no rules when it comes to personal style. But there are SOME rules when it comes to setting the table. Forks on the left, water and wine glasses on the right and coffee cups only appearing for dessert…”a place for everything and everything in its place” does hold true for certain things. Luckily, table linens offer an opportunity to get creative.
Napkins can be placed on the left with the forks or adorned with a napkin ring on top of the plate. Simply folded or intricately fanned, the options are endless. Check out this you tube video we found on 10 different ways to fold table napkins.
And don’t forget place mats and table runners to create more layers of interest.
Dress up snowy white linens with some texture. Crisp cotton mixed with antique lace would be charming. Or you can have fun with color, adding just a pop or an over the top explosion. And don’t forget patterns like fabulous florals or gorgeous geometric prints. For the ultimate personal touch, personalize napkins with an embroidered monogram (possibly in your signature color).
Some of the most beautifully set tables become true showstoppers with the juxtaposition of different patterns and styles. A jewel tone charger creates the perfect backdrop for classic white china. Napkins threaded with a metallic accent add a modern twist to your heirloom sets. Don’t be afraid to mix and match vintage with modern, ornate with understated or traditional with whimsical.
Floral arrangements and candles are a lovely finishing touch, but make sure that they don’t overpower the table. (and never ever scented!!) More importantly, they shouldn’t obstruct your guests’ view. It’s hard to follow even the most scintillating conversation when you can’t see the person who is speaking.
Hosting a holiday meal is about more than food or decor, it’s about welcoming loved ones and creating a sense of company and community. Whether your holiday table expresses refined elegance, extravagant glamour or delightful whimsy, it’s the laughter, storytelling and warm welcome that make it truly festive.
