setting it straight

Some rules are made to be broken (who doesn't love to eat dessert first!?!), but setting the table isn't one of them.  Here is a little reminder on how to properly set the table for your upcoming holiday soire...

• All items are placed according to the order that it will be used
• Dinner plate at center of the place setting (I often use chargers with the dinner plate, a great way to add a pop of color), salad plate on top
• Napkin placement is flexible - to the far left, under the forks, or on top of the dinner plate
• Dinner fork to the immediate left, then the salad or appetizer fork to the outside
• Knife to the immediate right (blade turned in), with soup spoon to the outside
• Water and wine glasses above the knife, with the wine glass closest to the guest's right hand
• Bread plate and butter knife go above the forks
• Dessert spoon and cake fork sit above the dinner plate

Some stylish table settings to inspire your own...