Table Dressing Tips

Most linens are folded right-side in, which makes it easier to simply open the cloth on the table. Taking time to ensure the cloth is even all the way around is an important step that many people forget. If you have catering staff coming behind you to set the table, it becomes VERY important to do it right away.

If you have runners, consider which way they will run before you put the first cloth on the first table. Typically we place them so that the eye views them moving away from the entrance door. Place your linens on the table so that the fold runs the exact way. This way, the runners can be placed over the center linen fold.

Rectangle tables, especially, benefit from an extra walk-around to ensure that the cloth is just “kissing” the floor. Likewise, chairs should not be pushed in the whole way on any shaped table, causing the linen to look rumpled and not drape fully.

Placing napkins so that they all are placed on the table or plates the same way is another small, but helpful effort to create a cohesive look.

It’s all in the details!