We eat with our eyes – and that is indeed true not just for the food itself. When buying groceries, we also pay attention to quality and appearance, wanting only the best goods for our money. During preparation and plating, aesthetics undoubtedly play a major role – no one wants to consume carelessly prepared food that has simply been arranged on a plate without order or purpose. If the food looks good, it tastes twice as good. But what is the best food without a beautifully set table? In a decorative environment and with an attractively prepared table, a meal can be enjoyed much more. So why not take more initiative with the dinner table?
10 tips for a beautifully set table at home
1. The table must be clear
The table must be clear. For many, this is a Herculean task. After all, so much accumulates throughout the day. Especially with children, there is always something on the table. So, first of all, all utensils that could be distracting during the meal should be banished from the table. This means remote controls, magazines, letters, pens, and the like. These objects let thoughts wander to other things during the meal, such as: What's on TV tonight? Did I pay that bill yet? What does my favorite magazine actually have to report? And so on... A calm and contemplative meal should always be enjoyed without worries and everyday stress. Trivial things greatly disturb the tranquility. And it is annoying when you have to keep pushing things back and forth to reach the butter.
2. Matching tableware
The choice of tableware is another important point on the list. Matching plates, bowls, and gravy boats harmonize significantly both on the table and in the eye of the beholder. Different types of plate patterns not only disrupt the ensemble but also appear clumsy and awkward.
3. The right choice of glasses
The choice of the right glasses should also match the rest of the design. A white wine glass should also be used as such. Connoisseurs immediately see the difference between sparkling wine, red wine, and white wine glasses – to avoid inconvenience, these should be used for their intended purpose in their designated place.
4. Correct arrangement of cutlery
Perhaps not particularly important, but still of high rank is the fourth point: the use of the correct cutlery in its place next to the plate. The fork still belongs on the left and the knife on the right. Various other forks, such as the salad fork, belong next to the left fork, and the fish knife should also take its place next to the knife on the right. Beautifully arranged and stylishly set, this looks very advantageous on a set table.
5. Matching napkins
The fifth place should also not be neglected: the matching napkin on the plate, perhaps nicely folded, should definitely harmonize with the rest of the table decoration. It is, of course, essential for cleaning up small mishaps and wiping the mouth after the meal.
6. Table decorations
Very important for a beautifully set table is the table decoration. Those who decide on a bouquet of flowers might be well-advised to use seasonal arrangements. A spring-like bouquet in the center of the table, a summer arrangement, a colorful autumnal decorative plate, or Christmas table decorations do a great job here for a beautiful ambiance. You can let your creativity run wild here. Many table decorations are quick and also inexpensive, because with natural materials like flowers, stones, moss, or leaves, you can conjure up quite a lot. A bowl of fruit that is beautifully draped also looks wonderful.
7. The tablecloth
The tablecloth should also be chosen with care. Color, material, or pattern, or whether you prefer to use small placemats or table runners. The tablecloth should also match the choice of the flower arrangement or other decorative ensembles and not compete with them or even clash in color. Lighter shades are definitely simple and elegant.
8. The seating arrangement
Not to be forgotten is the choice of seating arrangement. It should be noted that chairs, tableware, and cutlery unmistakably belong together. Nothing should look too cramped or without clear planning. The right arrangement and sorting are important here and should be chosen with care. If you like, you can also make beautiful place cards.
9. Accessibility of bowls
This is an important point so that no arguments or mishaps occur during the meal. When setting out bowls and dishes, one should not forget that they are also easily accessible. For larger festivities, perhaps several bowls with vegetables and sauces should be ready so that other people are not disturbed by passing things around during the meal. Also, smaller bowls are easier to handle than a 7 kg pot.
10. The lighting
The last point is crucial for a beautifully designed table: the lighting. Light that is too bright is indeed distracting and does not exactly create a cozy atmosphere. Several candles, small lamps, or dimmers look elegant and enrich the mood for a comfortable atmosphere. Beautiful light in the surrounding area can also work wonders, such as placing candles or lights on the dresser next to the table that conjure up beautiful light.
With these tips, nothing stands in the way of a beautiful meal; thanks to these 10 points, a beautifully set table becomes attractive and magnificent, and the meal a complete success.
Read also: Table decoration in ethnic style
