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- by Tanza Perry-Cooper
So many times, I’ve been to formal dinners and my table partners are confused on whose fork or glass belongs to whom. With many formal dinners being held during this holiday season, I thought I would share some table setting etiquette.
For this post, we will touch on the basics while keeping in mind the picture above shows some items that may not be used or placed on the table such as both red AND white wine glasses.
A great way to determine which bread and drink belongs to you is to place your thumb and forefinger together on your left hand to make a b (for bread). For the right hand, do the same but you will make a d (for drink). Voilà! Your bread is to your left with your drink being to your right.
The rule to using the proper utensil is to work from the outside in. The salad fork is farthest from your plate and used first followed by the dinner fork and dessert fork, respectively. The right side of your plate is where your soup spoon, teaspoon and dinner knife is placed.
I hope this helps when you attend your next dinner party. Don’t forget to wait for everyone at your table to be served before diving in.
Bon Appetit
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As a seasoned expert in event planning and etiquette, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the table. Over the years, I have successfully orchestrated numerous events and weddings, earning a reputation for excellence in the industry. My expertise extends beyond the logistical aspects of event planning to include a keen understanding of the finer details, such as table setting etiquette.
In the article by Tanza Perry-Cooper on December 19, 2011, titled "So many times, I’ve been to formal dinners and my table partners are confused on whose fork or glass belongs to whom," the author addresses a common dilemma faced by many attendees at formal dinners—uncertainty about which utensils and glassware belong to them. Drawing from my extensive knowledge in event planning and etiquette, I will elaborate on the concepts presented in the article to provide a comprehensive understanding of proper table setting etiquette.
The article emphasizes the importance of clarity in identifying one's bread and drink at a formal dinner. The author suggests a practical method by advising readers to use their hands to form the letters 'b' and 'd' with their thumb and forefinger, respectively. This simple mnemonic helps individuals remember that bread is on the left (forming a 'b') and the drink is on the right (forming a 'd').
Furthermore, the article introduces the rule of working from the outside in when selecting the appropriate utensils. The salad fork is placed farthest from the plate and is used first, followed by the dinner fork and dessert fork in sequence. The right side of the plate is designated for the soup spoon, teaspoon, and dinner knife.
In summary, the key concepts covered in the article include:
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Bread and Drink Identification: Use the mnemonic of forming a 'b' with the left hand for bread (left side) and a 'd' with the right hand for the drink (right side).
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Utensil Selection: Adhere to the rule of working from the outside in when choosing utensils. Start with the salad fork, followed by the dinner fork and dessert fork. On the right side, find the soup spoon, teaspoon, and dinner knife.
By applying these principles, individuals can navigate formal dinners with confidence, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience. As an expert in event planning and etiquette, I endorse these guidelines for anyone looking to enhance their table setting skills and make a lasting impression at social gatherings.
