How To Set A Table With Charger Plates

Charger plates are an excellent addition to your dinnerware as they enhance the look of your dining table and give it a much polished and sophisticated touch. These decorative plates come in between the bottom plates and give your table setup a multi-layered stylish effect. Below, we will walk you through the steps on how to set the charger plate for any formal event or dinner party.

What Are Charger Plates?

Charger plates are an excellent addition to your dinnerware as they enhance the look of your dining table and give it a much polished and sophisticated touch. These decorative plates come in between the bottom plates and give your table setup a multi-layered stylish effect. Below, we will walk you through the steps on how to set the charger plate for any formal event or dinner party.

What Are Charger Plates?

Charger plates are large service plates that have nothing to do directly with the eating of food but are used more as a showpiece base for other types of dinnerware. They are usually set on the table before dining to present a formal setting like dinner at a fine restaurant or a wedding.

How to Set a Table with Charger Plates: Step-by-Step

1. Choose Your Charger Plates

First, choose charger plates that match the color scheme and theme of the event. Charger plates come in all kinds of designs: classic gold and silver to modern textured ones and in materials of your choice.

2. Place the Charger Plates

Place the chargers in the middle of each table setting about 1 to 2 inches from the edge of the table. This will serve as the base of your table setting and should be aligned with the guest's chair.

3. Layer with Dinnerware

Once they are in place, layer them with dinnerware. Place a dinner plate atop each charger. If having multiple courses, position a salad plate or soup bowl on top of a dinner plate. Center each dish so that you have an efficient, tidy look.

4. Add Silverware and Glassware

Position the silverware and glassware according to the standard rules for a table setting. Forks are placed on the left and knives and spoons are on the right side. Glassware will be positioned above the knife on the charger plate on the right side.

5. Complement with Napkins and Table Linens

Complete the table setting with matching napkins and linens. Lay out the napkins and place them either directly on the charger plate or to the left of the forks. The tablecloth or runner must be dressed similarly to that of the charger plate as regards material and color.

Best Occasions for Using Charger Plates

Charger plates are commonly used at formal events such as weddings, holiday dinners, or other special occasions. They give the table setting a neat and proper look and help prevent spills and stains on your table since they serve as a base for your dinnerware.

Tips for Styling Charger Plates

Coordinate Colors

Choose charger plates that will go well with your entire color scheme or party theme. Whether you use neutrals or bright vibrant colors, make sure they work well with the rest of your table decor.

Use Different Textures

You can pair polyester tablecloths with sequin table runners for depth and interest in your table setting.

Mix and Match

You can try mixing and matching different patterns or colors for a unique look. Remember that choosing the perfect piece will highly depend on the theme of your event. If you want a monochromatic theme, choosing one color and matching them with all the accessories and dinnerware for your entire set up can be done. Otherwise, match charger plates with the same color or design for your chair covers, backdrops, and other table linens.

Using charger plates in your table setting adds an elegant touch to your event and helps create a refined dining experience. By following these simple steps and styling tips, you can ensure that your table looks polished and cohesive. Whether for a wedding, holiday dinner, or formal gathering, charger plates are an easy way to elevate any dining setup.

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