Sharing food with friends and family over a table is an important part of our daily lives, which we all look forward to. A well-laid table is an opportunity for the host and hostess to prepare ahead, cater for any requirements, add décor to the space and, most importantly, create a warm welcome for their guests!
Traditionally, dining tables were an option for the wealthy to display their status and impress their guests. Laying a table must have been a big task for a royal banquet where the appearance of a huge array of dishes and equally huge amount of cutlery for each course held just as much importance as using proper manners and etiquette whilst eating.
A well-equipped table is about caring for your guests and making your load a little lighter as a host! Ensure you do not create more work for yourself in just making it look beautiful, make it practical…
Keep it simple.
Laying a table does not have to be difficult or arduous. For those that have limited time, make it easier for yourself. Linen napkins in darker colours that do not require ironing or beautiful folding techniques can be a quick option. Some simple table décor ideas include tapered candles for ambience, a bunch of flowers or add layers with a table runner. Seating arrangements can be sorted ahead of time and place names can be set out to alleviate the stress on the host when it gets busy.
Make it interesting.
Something different will always create an element of intrigue for the platters and courses that are about to come. Consider changing up your décor for the season. Here, the autumnal colours have added another layer to the table with bright leaves and seasonal touches. Some winter greens in a vase will easily be swapped for budded stems, such as pussy willow in spring, or vibrant dahlias and fresh foliage in the warmer months. Even better, dried flowers or faux plants require no upkeep and can have just the same effect.
Keep it functional.
Having the same food or platters both ends of the table enables your guests to access hot food quickly, and passing dishes can be harder for the elderly or parents who are otherwise occupied with the young! Being able to reach food, condiments and utensils may often be underestimated, but layout should be well thought out to be practical.
Cater for the little ones.
We all know the smaller girls and boys can find sitting a chore. Offer parents a helping hand by setting a children’s place with colouring pencils, an activity page (suitable for their age) or books as a small token of support and to help make sitting up just a little more fun!
Compose a checklist of what you would appreciate as a guest. It could be the simple gestures that are most valued: a glass of water, making the spacing around the table comfortable distances between people or a convenient lemon wipe to freshen up! At the end of the day, a table can still look beautiful whilst making life simpler for all involved. Fresh hot food will always be appreciated and especially when enjoyed with those you care for!
