Setting A Sumptuous Table
For me, half the fun of the holidays is all of the beautiful tablescapes I can put together. After 3 decades of entertaining, I have an embarrassingly large collection of flatware, china, and stemware. And yes, Hunky Hubby, I need every bit of it.
Setting the table can be a breeze with a few simple tips. Take time out now to count all your linens, and check for stains or tears. I love spending a Sunday afternoon ironing all the linens, and then I’ll tuck them away where they will stay crisp and tidy before I need them to set my table. Check if you have enough placemats, and if the tablecloth needs to be pressed.
Now is the time to check and make sure you have everything you need.
Dishware Checklist:
Do you have enough, does it need to be polished?
- Flatware
- Utensils
- Serving Utensils
- Serving platers and bowl
- Dessert plates
- Wine glasses
- Water glasses
- Coffee cups and saucers
Tip: Check those wine glasses to make certain they do not have water drops.
|
|
I always set my table at least a day or two in advance. It is one less thing to do, and it helps me visualize if I have enough room for mountains of platters and serving dishes.
|
Place Cards, A Personal Touch
How to handle who has to sit next to Uncle Jerry... I think place cards are a gracious way to let everyone know you’ve given care to where they’ll sit.
One year, I went so far as to bake edible gingerbread place cards for everyone at my table. Place cards can allow you to show off your creativity. Perhaps use a piece of wheat tucked into each card or mount a place card into a tiny pumpkin. Be creative!
Whatever you plan, show your family and guests you care by setting a sumptuous table.
After Dinner, the Dreaded Dishes...
Be certain to empty the dishwasher just before dinner begins. Have plenty of clean dish towels for hand washing and drying your fine china and crystal.
If your guest offers help, accept and delegate! Or recruit some in advance to help with the dishes. We often have a dish brigade and make it into another chance to just be together.
