Formal dinners are often used for celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary, birthday, wedding or annual holiday. One very important (and sometimes intimidating) aspect to a formal dinner is the table setting. How the utensils are laid out and the number of items per place setting can set the tone of the event and distinguish the level of formality guests can expect.

Whether you are attending a formal dinner or hosting one, understanding proper table settings and etiquette takes time and practice. Don’t be discouraged if you use the wrong fork or place the butter plate where the wine glass should be. Table setting and utensil use isn’t too complicated once you understand the basic rules.

What Is the Proper Table Setting for a Formal Dinner?

There are three common types of table settings — casual, basic and formal. When setting a table for a formal dinner, there are a few key guidelines to follow to ensure a successful and memorable dining experience.

• Formal table settings should always be set with high-quality, elegant tableware (i.e., white linen tablecloths and napkins, charger plates, crystal glassware, etc.)

• Silverware should always be placed in the order they will be used in, starting from the outside in (i.e., the salad fork is always on the outer left side of the dinner fork)

• Glassware should include a water glass and wine glass(es) if wine is to be served (some settings may include a red wine glass and a white wine glass)

• Serving plates should be centered and placed on top of a charger plate if appropriate (charger plates are designed to secure the serving plates in place and catch any loose crumbs)

• All silverware should be evenly spaced, lining up the bottoms with the bottom of the serving plate (if dessert is served, those utensils should be placed horizontally above the serving plate)

• Silverware on the left side of the serving plate should consist of a salad fork and dinner fork (starting with the salad fork on the outer left side)

• Silverware on the right side of the serving plate should consist of a teaspoon, soup spoon, salad knife and dinner knife (starting with the teaspoon on the outer right side)

• Bread plates should be placed above the forks to the left of the serving plate (butter knives should be placed directly on the bread plate with the handle to the right and the blade facing down)

• Coffee or teacups and their saucers should be placed above the soup spoon and slightly to the right (disregard this step if coffee or tea will not be served)

Why Does a Table Setting Matter?

A formal dinner is an experience, and the host should always take that into consideration. Guests attending a formal dinner usually expect a memorable experience. First impressions are instrumental in providing quality service and a table setting is often the first touchpoint in the guest experience.

The table setting is often a key indicator of just how formal a dinner will be. Formal dinners will likely have three to five courses while informal dinners will likely have two or three courses. The more courses in a meal, the more utensils and plateware that should be placed on the table.

Host Your Wedding or Event at CrystalView in Fairfax, Virginia

From weddings to corporate events and Quinceañeras, CrystalView offers an extensive list of services and amenities to help you plan a successful event. Our team is trained in formal table setting and dining etiquette to provide an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Our four unique rental spaces offer a variety of options that can be customized to fit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a grand ballroom for a large wedding or an intimate space to host a small gathering, our event rooms are versatile and designed to accommodate a wide range of guests in attendance.

To learn more about CrystalView, contact us today to schedule a tour of our venue.