Whether you choose to serve your guests in formal, informal, or buffet style, the comfort of your guests is top priority. To avoid overcrowding, allow 24" to 30" for each setting. Place settings should be 1" from the edge of the table, and avoid centerpiece arrangements that obstruct the view of guests.
Do not place items such as coffee cups, tea cups, and/or dessert plates on the table if it crowds your guests. It is appropriate to bring those items to the table after the main course has been cleared and dessert is served.
If a shortage of place settings is a problem, mix in pieces that do not match. Mix and match place setting has become a popular trend.
When deciding on a table centerpiece, keep it low. Large, tall centerpieces obstruct the view of your guests.
Choose an atmosphere that is appropriate for your gathering, an atmosphere that compliments your meal and encourages conversation.
Buffet
Start with plates, followed by side dishes, main dish, vegetables, salads, breads and relishes. The utensils are placed at the end of the buffet.
Table decorations are placed above and in center of buffet arrangement.
Set drinks, glasses, cups and dessert on a separate table to avoid congestion.
If choosing to use paper napkins, the napkins may be placed between each plate in the stack to conserve space (not more than 12 plates per stack).
