Formal and informal table settings aren't fussy or archaic. Quite the opposite -- they are practical rules that take the guesswork out of setting a table. The charger plate is the keystone of each table setting by providing the center around which the setting functions and your dinner flourishes.
About Charger Plates
Whether the charger plate is called the "chop plate," the "under plate" or "service plate," it always has the same purpose. The charger plate rests under another food-safe dish, whether it's a soup bowl or salad plate.
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- Chargers
vary in size from 11 to 14 inches in diameter.
- They
are made out of many different materials, such as porcelain, metal,
rattan and plastic.
- They
can be used with place mats, tablecloths or both.
- Charger
plates help catch any spills or stains that
would otherwise stain the place mat or tablecloth.
Proper Etiquette
Chargers are used as part of informal and formal table settings. When used during informal meals, the charger can be used as an accessory throughout the entire meal. The formal rules are more stringent:
- Each
place setting should have a charger, and the chargers should be at
least 2 feet from each other to allow adequate elbow room for guests.
- The charger may be used as a place to rest name cards, napkins or menu cards prior to the dinner.
- Salad
dishes, soup bowls and dinner plates may all be placed on the
chargers, but the chargers must be either replaced or wiped clean
between each course.
- Chargers
are to be removed from the table after the main course and before the
dessert. Chargers are never to be used during the dessert.
Other Uses for Charger Plates
When not in use for formal or informal dinners, use your chargers as part of your decor.
- Display
pillar candles on a charger plate.
- Rest
a vase of flowers, real or artificial, on the charger.
- Incorporate
both flowers and candles as the centerpiece and center a small vase
of flowers in the center of the plate and surround it with tea light
candles.
- Display
special cakes on the charger, but lay down a doily first.