Entertaining

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In style

Atmosphere: Rely on your creativity and common sense when entertaining and setting the scene in your home. Make sure that each guest feels as comfortable as possible all the while not feeling completely overwhelmed yourself! Nothing is more stylish and inviting than Fresh Flowers! They are a quick and easy way to decorate plus creating your own arrangements will add that personal touch and impress your guests.

Be informed. Know how to set a proper table.

 

HOW TO: Basic Table Setting

 

 

 

 

For a basic table setting, here are two great tips to help you–or your kids–remember the order of plates and utensils:

1. Picture the word “FORKS.” The order, left to right, is F for Fork, O for the Plate (the shape!), K for Knives and S for Spoons. (Okay, you have to forget the R, but you get the idea!)

2. Holding your hands in front of you, touch the tips of your thumbs to the tips of your forefingers to make a lowercase ‘b’ with your left hand and a lowercase ‘d’ with your right hand. This reminds you that “bread and butter” go to the left of the place setting and “drinks” go on the right. Emily Post could have used that trick–she was often confused about which bread and butter belonged to her–and sometimes she used her neighbor’s! In which case, when it was called to her attention, she would say to the dismayed lady or gentleman, “Oh, I am always mixing them up. Here, please take mine!”

Some other things to know:

¥ Knife blades always face the plate

¥ The napkin goes to the left of the fork, or on the plate

¥ The bread and butter knife are optional

Cocktails + Bites: These should be at the top of your list. Know your audience. Ask about allergies. As your guests enter, offer them something to drink. Provide some snacks or hours d’Oeuvres before dinner. Use your homemade recipes or pick up in the store. Guests really care about if it tastes good and if you are able to be with them instead of in the kitchen. Don’t forget dessert!