Ideas for Setting the Table

Between family celebrations, holidays, and work events, there are always opportunities to organize a formal lunch or dinner. However, it is important to learn how to distinguish between the different elements of a well-set table to avoid any faux pas and ensure the setting is appropriate for the occasion.

Below, we offer some valuable tips that might help you in the upcoming festivities.

How to Prepare a Colorful Table?

If you have chosen to set the table with a patterned tablecloth, you can match plates, chargers, napkin rings, and napkins by using the different shades found in the design. Be careful not to mix too many colors or patterns: if the tablecloth has a marine theme, and features an ultramarine blue detail—like a fish or a starfish—select a napkin ring of the same color and shape.

If you want to visually "lighten" the composition, you can choose to use more neutral details, perhaps matching them to the color of the undercloth: for example, if there is a cream-colored undercloth beneath the patterned tablecloth, you can choose napkins in the same shade.

The charger plate helps with composition by providing a solid visual base; it could be a pewter or silver charger plate. Alternatively, there are charger plates made using the same technique as traditional baskets, using a material similar to wicker that is spirally woven to add a more rustic touch to the table setting. If we prefer a more traditional style, a 30cm ceramic plate is an excellent choice for creating a simple and colorful charger. Note: The charger plate is only necessary if the table is set with a tablecloth; if we have opted for a table runner in the center or a placemat for each guest, we do not need to add the charger plate. Once the charger plate is set, we add the dinner plate and, on top, the soup plate. Finally, we place the fruit plate at the top. We complete each guest’s setting with a bread plate, which should be placed to the right of the plate, on top of the napkin. For aesthetic reasons, the bread plate can be replaced with a small bowl.

How to decorate a set table?

Depending on the table's location—if it is positioned away from direct light sources—we can choose to place small stackable lamps in the center of the table, allowing us to adjust the intensity and warmth of the light to enhance the setting. Alternatively, we can use a classic candle holder: it can be more traditional in shape, or we can create an alternative version with crystal bowls filled with water in the center of the table. Floating candles can be placed inside the bowls to provide a soft and dynamic light. If we are setting the table for a special occasion and want to emphasize the event's colors, we can also use colored candles: for example, for a Christmas dinner, we might choose golden or red candles.

What to use as a centerpiece?

The first rule when choosing a centerpiece is to always pay attention to the height of the arrangements. Anything placed in the center of the table—flowers, candle holders, etc.—should not obstruct the view between diners, who should be able to see each other during the meal. Remember that the centerpiece should not be too intrusive: you can opt for a central arrangement with slightly larger dimensions, or create 2-3 or more arrangements distributed along the length of the table. Let seasonal inspiration guide you: if it’s a Christmas-themed table, the centerpiece can reflect that theme, with Christmas ornaments, garlands, and other colorful decorations. For example, starting with a Sardinian cork tray—known as Jona in Sardinian—you can create centerpieces with pine cones or other elements evocative of the winter season. On the other hand, if you have chosen to set the table with a more summery tablecloth—from the Sardegna Blu Collection—you might opt for marine-themed raku ceramic sculptures as the centerpiece, such as colorful fish. Additionally, the centerpiece can vary in placement depending on the shape of the table. For an oval table, for instance, if diners are seated along the "long" sides, the two rounded ends remain empty: you can then choose to place two centerpieces in these spaces to balance the table setting.

How to Match Glasses, Pitchers, and Bottles

An increasingly eco-friendly and original choice is represented by ceramic pitchers, which can be used for both water and wine in various sizes. The two pitchers should be placed in the center of the table and should be distinct from each other for practicality.

If we are aiming for a more rustic table setting that evokes a somewhat retro countryside vacation, we might choose to replace glass glasses with ceramic ones: an aesthetic solution that is rarely used today, which not only stands out for its originality but also allows you to play with colors and patterns similar to those of the dinnerware. However, if we want to set the table for an elegant celebration, it’s better to stick with classic glass goblets.

Final Details for a Cozy Table

To make the meal more enjoyable, don’t forget to also pay attention to the seating detail: choose the seat cushion carefully, made from the classic mechanical loom fabrics of Sardinia, which can be matched with the seat cover in color and pattern. On the chair or near the plate, place a small item, a token gift for each guest, making them feel even more welcomed at your meal. The guest gift is like a small favor, given by the hosts to remember the event: for example, it could be a ceramic pendant, a small turtle-shaped sculpture, or an angel if the event is during the Christmas holidays.

If this article has inspired you and you want to start your search for dishes, tablecloths, and gifts, visit our website.

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