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When entertaining in a formal manner it is essential to set the table correctly. Some hosts are intimidated by the protocol surrounding these formal settings, however it is not as daunting as you may believe. Simply follow our step by step guide and setting a formal table will soon become second nature.

Setting a Formal Table

1) Allow at least 70cm between place settings, spacing equidistantly and as far apart as the table allows.

2) A 10" service plate (charger plate) is placed in the centre of the setting, 2.5cm (1") from the table edge. The plate remains in place for the soup and entrée course, and is removed just before the main course. The service plate is optional, but for a formal dinner is certainly preferred.

3) Lay silver 2.5cm (1") from the edge of table, in a straight line in order of use starting from the outside.

4) The knife and soup spoon are set to the right of the plate and forks to the left. Forks have the prongs facing upwards, the knife blade faces the plate and the bowl of the spoon faces upwards.

5) Dessert spoon and fork are placed 5cm (2") directly above the plate. The fork is set in the lower position with the handle facing left, and the spoon above with the handle facing right.

6) Glassware sits to the right of the knife and the glass for each course is lined up in sequence from the right. For example, the order from the right may be; a sherry glass, white wine glass, red wine glass, champagne flute and a water tumbler.

7) As each course is cleared the corresponding glass should be removed. If the guest wishes to stay with the previous wine for the duration of the meal, replace the glass.

8) The Side plate is placed at the tip of the fork with the bread and butter knife either placed on the plate or on the right hand side of the dinner knife and soup spoon.

9) The cloth napkin is placed on the service plate (or where one would have been) or on the side plate.

10) If salad is served with the main course it may be placed on the left or right of each setting.

11) If you choose to dine by candlelight ensure there is enough light to eat. You may supplement candlelight with your dining room light. The flame must be above or below eye level or flickering will become annoying. Candles should not be on the table unless used.

12) The table centrepiece must be either above or below eyelevel so as not to inhibit conversation around the table.

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