If you’re entertaining all ages this Thanksgiving Day, opt for a table that invites a more casual, family-friendly atmosphere. After all, the less there is on the table, the fewer the opportunities for little hands to make a mess!
Mind your manners with this simple guide to setting the perfect casual dinner table.
Steps to setting a casual dinner table
- Start with the charger front and center, followed by the dinner plate directly on top.
- To the left of the charger, place the dinner fork.
- To the left of the dinner fork, place the neatly folded napkin.
- Directly to the right of the charger, place the knife, followed by the soup spoon just to the right of the knife.
- Above the charger, place the dessert fork facing right, and the dessert spoon above the dessert fork, facing left.
- Parallel to the dessert fork and spoon, place the water glass on the left side, so it’s resting just above the knife and soup spoon.
- Place the wine glass just below the water glass, slightly to the left.
Table décor tips
If you’re using solid colored plates and glassware, add a pop of color and interest with your table runner and centerpiece. Go festive with a traditional cornucopia flowing over with fresh gourds and fruit flanked by simple candles on either end, or opt for something more modern with a creative floral display.
To keep kids entertained, use these cute Kraft paper Thanksgiving placemats available on Etsy, or make your own!
Looking for a more formal Thanksgiving dinner setting?
Check out our guide to setting a proper formal Thanksgiving dinner table.