I love formal entertaining. Like, love love it. I think there are few things that are more fabulous than a fancy dinner party. Unfortunately, I think it's a lost art these days, and "dinner with friends" has turned into crashing around the coffee table with paper towels as napkins. Don't get me wrong, I love doing this on weeknights when I just don't feel like cooking, but when guests are involved? I love the opportunity to break out the full force of my silver, Kate Spade China, and cloth napkins!
When I was in high school, I used to cater for the most wonderful catering company in Annapolis - Ken's Creative Kitchen. They pride themselves on preparing amazing food and also having the most professional and knowledgable staff of any other catering company. I always enjoyed the experience of catering fine events because I got to learn the essentials of setting tables correctly and thus, throwing a formal dinner party (or wedding, etc). From then on, I have always inspected formal table settings. It's a minor irritation when the bottom of the plate and the bottoms of the silver do not match up. It's also makes me want to go around the table and change things around when the sharp edge of the knife does not face the place. "Calm Down," I have to say to myself sometimes. When Bobby notices me inspecting the table on which we'll eat, he rolls his eyes and quickly pulls me away.
Is it really that big a deal? No, but if the Queen of England ever came to eat with me on Primevere Street, then I'd be ready and proper. And now, I've probably eliminated myself from any dinner invitations in the future.
So, for those of you who may be wondering where the wine glass goes in relation to the water glass, or what fork you should start with when there are multiples, here's a wonderful guide I found that will ease all your troubles.
And, in case you were wondering... you lay plates on the left side of whomever you are serving and remove them from the right side.
Meat should always be served on the plate at 6:00. That's all for now.
Until next time,
Mrs. Hoity-Toity Pants
