How to set a beautiful table for a dinner party

A beautifully set table turns the ordinary into something special. Whether it's for an elegant or informal dinner, or even if I'm alone. Because yes, and because I deserve it.

How to set the table for an elegant dinner

It all starts with intention. If you want an elegant dinner, you don't need to rent silver cutlery or hire a butler. But you do need to think about the details.

• White or ecru linen tablecloth: clean, well-placed, with a generous drape (look here to find out how much a tablecloth should hang).

• Complete dinnerware, with a charger plate, dinner plate, and dessert plate.

• Glasses: water, wine, and if there's a toast, a cava glass (even if it's sparkling water, but in a pretty glass).

• Cloth napkins folded to the left of the plate or with a simple napkin ring.

• Tall candles, unscented (so as not to overshadow the menu), and something natural in the center: flowers, branches, or fruits.

You can see our linen tablecloths here

You might also like: 10 tips to make your table a success

And what if, instead of an elegant dinner, you're having pizza with friends and beers? Well, the table still gets set, you'll see...

How to set the table for an informal dinner

Here comes the magic of simplicity. Informal dinners are my favorite because there's no protocol, but there is warmth. It's not about impressing, but about making everyone feel comfortable.

• Pretty and practical coated tablecloth. If something spills, you clean it with a napkin and we keep chatting.

• Mixed tableware: each plate different, but with a common harmony. Sometimes, I bring out the older ones and combine them with new ones.

• Patterned napkins: gingham, floral, or striped. They instantly add cheer to the table.

• Warm light: a touch lamp, small candles, or even string lights if we're on the terrace.

• Personal touches: cards with phrases, a vase with daisies, or small glasses with lavender sprigs.

Frequently asked questions

Where are napkins placed at a dinner?
To the left of the plate or on top, elegantly folded. If you use a napkin ring, the center is ideal.

Do you need to use different glasses for water and wine?
It's not mandatory, but it looks beautiful. The water glass is wider; the wine glass is more slender.

Can I mix different dinnerware sets?
Of course! Mixing dinnerware adds character to the table. Just make sure the colors complement each other.

What if I don't have charger plates?
No problem. You can use linen placemats or even large dinner plates. The gesture is what matters.

Conclusion: beauty is also served

You don't need excuses to set a beautiful table. It doesn't have to be Christmas or have guests. Sometimes, a well-set table is the simplest way to tell yourself: today is also worth celebrating.

And if you're short on ideas, inspiration, or a new tablecloth to start...
Here I am (and La Compañía Francesa) with everything you need to set the prettiest table in the neighborhood.

Discover more in our table art blog
And if you want to refresh your basics, explore our complete collections

Kisses, hugs, and well-placed napkins,
—Marga