Restaurant Recipe Reviews

Dinner party planning can become a little easier when it is theme based. The theme can be either formal, informal or somewhere in between. Seasonal themes are often very popular. Flowers, decorations and other enhancements will be determined by what is available at the time of year. You may buy many supplies which include types of napkins, disposable, cloth, floral designs, decorations, flatware, and glassware.

Napkins are an important part of the table setting. They come in various styles and sizes, and can be functional as well as decorative. The primary use is wiping food off the mouth and placing in the lap for protection of clothes. There are two types, paper and cloth. The cloth can also be called linen. The linens provide a certain elegance to the table and can be washed. They are often displayed with rings. Many linens have matching tablecloths. Their size is usually 14 by 24 inches square.

Paper napkins are the most convenient for use everyday and those with small children. They are offered in numerous colors and can be personalized for special engagements and weddings. The standard size of a luncheon napkin is about a 12 inch square. Dinner napkins which are disposable are usually 15 inches square. Cocktail napkins come in a 10 inch square in linen or disposable.

The formal dinner table setting is usually started with the charger plate. The main purpose is that the place setting is never without a plate, however food is not placed on this plate. The table setting begins by placing a linen in the middle of this plate. Both of the dinner knives should be on the right side of the plate. The largest dinner knife should be right next to the plate with the small knife next to it. Both of the blades should face inward toward the charger plate. The dessert spoon is next to the small knife.

Glasses should be on the right side of plate about 3 inches above knives. The first glass which is the water goblet should be aligned with the rim of the plate. The wine glass should be next and then the champagne flute. The forks are on the left side of the plate. Salad fork goes the closest to charger plate, next is dinner fork. The butter plate is placed above the salad fork.

Now that your table is set, let us look at ways to enhance it. Nametags which are also called place cards, can be put at each place setting to strategically seat guests. You want to create a card that matches your theme or decor. Placing cards in frames, placing on easels, or resting on candleholders are just a few innovative ideas. The place cards can be used as a party favor to remember the occasion.

Dinner party decor can be as simple or elaborate as your taste or theme. If you are looking for a simple yet elegant ambiance, you can get fresh flowers and put in vases, in key areas of your home. You may also want to place a few candles around the room.

The centerpiece should be the focal point of your dinner table. When it comes to the centerpiece, you can use, citrus fruit, dried fruit, fresh cut flowers, candles or a mixture. The use of many colors will help to create an exotic look. Candy displays and buffets are gaining popularity. The dinner party should be an extension of your personal preferences through the theme, decorations, and how the table is set. The choices are only limited by your imagination.

Suzi Sinclair is an interior decorator and home staging expert. For more information on MYdrap napkins, visit www.hardtofinditems.com.