Casual Table Settings
When you look at table settings with pictures, you probably observe a sense of formality and structure. There’s always a certain way to arrange plates and cutlery, a place for each glass and bowl, and strict rules on the type and color of table linens. Formal table settings have that kind of appeal: clipped, proper, and always carefully measured. It ensures that all guests are comfortably seated and the meal properly enjoyed. But would you really want this setup for all your parties? Probably not—and fortunately, you don’t always have to go by the rules.
For the typical party-thrower, a casual table setting is usually more appropriate. While there are still some rules to follow, they’re a lot more relaxed. In a casual table setting, you can use any color, pattern, and table arrangement, and seat your guests any way you like. You can work with a more flexible budget, scrimping on some elements and going all-out on the others. Since there are no limits, the possibilities are practically endless. Read on for some ideas on setting a casual table that’s sure to impress your guests.
Go cultural
You’ve probably seen or eaten an Asian, French, or Mediterranean table. But have you ever considered an African table setting? Many cultures have their own table customs that wouldn’t normally fit in with a formal event. By going casual, you open up to all these cultural ideas that lend a unique, unforgettable flair to your table. You can even take little bits from different styles and create a "patchwork" cultural theme that’s entirely your own.
The main elements of an African table are vibrant colors and the use of natural materials, such as wood and stone. A good way to start is with a colorful tablecloth. You can cover your table with plain linen and use a patterned fabric to run down the middle. Whenever possible, use wood or stone pieces—you can do this with a shabby-chic centerpiece or by using wooden holders for your place cards. If you have genuine African pieces such as beads or cushions, go ahead and add them to the table to complete the look.
Serve buffet style
You can’t get more casual than letting people help themselves to the food. A buffet style table setting allows your guests to choose what they want, fill up or size down their meals, and come back for seconds or thirds. This works well for large events (typically more than 25 people), since you don’t have to cater to each one individually or worry about each person’s preferences. You may have to make more of each course, but since everyone’s serving himself, there’s a smaller chance of wasted leftovers.
The first thing to consider with a buffet table is the traffic flow. Make sure the line flows smoothly from end to end. Try setting up a circular table instead of a rectangular one—it helps people move faster and they don’t have to fall back in line to get to the first course. Keep the essentials within easy access, so you don’t have hungry people lining up with full plates just to get a fork.
Look for unusual themes
Some people have seasonal themes, while others have specific color palettes or holiday décor. But why not go for something less common? For instance, you can try creating retro, postmodern, or even western table settings. Use vintage items from your own collection or from a vintage shop to decorate your table. Straw coasters and cowboy hats make good accents for a Western table. Take whatever you have around the house and use them to complete your theme.
You can also take your cue from the occasion itself. For Halloween, costume parties are almost a given, but you can add your own spin to it by dressing up your table as well. Find individual Halloween masks for each guest and use them as both placeholders and giveaways. For Easter, you can use a bowl of Easter eggs as your centerpiece and put a little Easter bunny next to each plate.
A word on etiquette
Of course, even the most informal events still call for some table setting etiquette. While you don’t have to follow the rigid rules of formal table settings, it helps to grasp the main concept behind them, which is simply to keep guests comfortable. For starters, make sure there’s enough room on the table for people to reach for their food, hold conversations, and eat without bumping into each other’s sides.
Most of the etiquette rules can be addressed with proper planning. It goes without saying that you should plan ahead if you want a successful party. Weeks before the big day, you should work on making a guest list, sending invites, and planning your menu. When everything’s taken care of, you can spend the last minutes just having fun with the décor and making the most out of your casual table setting.
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