If you’ve ever flipped through a home decorating or cooking magazine during the holidays, you know that professionals have set the bar for table setting a little, err … high. Spectacular centerpieces, enough silverware to eat ten meals, and a turkey glazed so perfectly it looks fake—it’s a lot to live up to.
Luckily the rules of table setting are quite simple, and, when applied correctly, can transform your holiday table from uninspired to awe-inspiring.

• On neutral ground. The basis of your holiday table should be neutral. A beige-colored or cream-colored runner or tablecloth, monochrome chargers, and basic napkins allow for more experimentation with your centerpiece and other decor. Plus, the food will add plenty of color.

• Everything has its place. You probably already know the basics of setting a table, à la fork on the left, but you might not know which side of the plate a drinking glass should go on or where to place the dinner napkin. For a formal appearance, knives and spoons should be placed on the right, with the spoon on the outside. Forks belong on the left. Silverware that is used first should be farthest from the plate. Drinkware should be placed to the right of the plate, and napkins should be placed on top of the entrée plate.



• A burst of color. With a neutral base (per the advice above), you have plenty of room to get creative with final touches to your table—think colorful gourds, natural pieces like leaves and branches, and dazzling gold or silver accents.

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