Linens & Centerpieces Defined

Best Dressed Table: Linens & Centerpieces

A good wood table is a great base for a perfect table setting. Still, linens add drama and elegance.

Tablecloth: White is formal but can be used for any setting.

Use what you like.
Traditionally it hangs 18 inches over the table.

Place Mats: used to protect one place setting.

Can be elegant or simple and made from any material.

Table Runner: usually coordinated with placemats covering the center of the table.

Napkin: white linen damask, 24 inches square is formal.

Napkins may vary in size from one foot and larger.
Luncheon-sized is about 12-14 inches square and used for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Cocktail Napkin: small about four inches square folded, used for cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres—paper is fine.

Centerpieces

Centerpieces should not be so tall to obscure diners view when seated.

Flowers: a good choice if not too fragrant

Candles: white is formal.

One or two pairs for a table of eight unless it is the only light source, then allow one candle per person.
Balance the number of candles on each side of the centerpiece.
Light before guests enter the dining room and extinguish after they leave.

Alternatives

Anything edible is always a good choice as well. How about a bowl of oranges?

Continue

China & Glassware

Fork, Spoon, & Knife

How Do I Eat That?

Excerpt From:

Entertaining Skills 101: The Etiquette of Entertaining Our Guests by Rebecca Black

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