A well-set table is an important element in creating a pleasant atmosphere at a gathering with friends, a romantic dinner or a family meal.

Before you start serving, make sure that the dimensions of the table are adequate for the number of people who will be seated. The distance between diners should be comfortable. From one plate to the other there should be about 60 cm.

Pay attention to the material with which you choose the table textiles. The tablecloth is an indicator of the level of the house and the level of the owner. Therefore, it is important to choose materials such as linen, Egyptian cotton, reject synthetics and polyester, so as not to cheapen the image of serving.

It's good when the color of the tablecloth matches the overall style of the room. If you are unsure of your choice, it is best to give preference to light neutral toned fabrics. The edges of the tablecloth should hang at least 20 cm. This way the tablecloth will be beautiful and will not get in the way.

With a classic table service, cloth napkins made of natural materials should be present at the table. You can use nice napkin rings, which will give your service a certain charm. The napkin is folded in half and placed on your lap before the meal begins.

The plates should be placed at the same distance from each other, with a separation of 2-5 cm from the edge of the table. On the under the plate is placed a dinner plate and, on top of it, the appetizer plate, the function of which can be played by the dessert plate. A deep plate or a bowl. The bread plate is placed in the upper left corner.

The number of cutlery must correspond to the number of plate changes. The cutlery must be 10 mm apart from each other and from the plate. The use of cutlery starts from the furthest away to the closest to the plate. Spoons and knives are placed on the right, forks on the left of the plates. The only fork that can be placed on the right is the fork for oysters or snails.

Glasses and goblets are placed at the top right. The glass of water is placed closer, then the glasses are placed according to the outlet of the plates. Finish with a glass underneath the last plate, which is placed in the center.

The table can be decorated with vases with flowers, fruit bowls, candles. The main rule: the decoration should not interfere with communication at the table, cover the face of the person in front of you. The recommended height of decorative elements should not exceed 25 cm.

A well-set table creates a special atmosphere. And it doesn't matter if you're preparing sumptuous dishes or limiting yourself to appetizers and wine, the main thing is that it's enjoyable to sit at the table and have a relaxed conversation.