--- title: "12 Formal Tables You Can Copy for Any Event ..." description: "Cloth Napkins; Candles and Flowers; Choose a Color Scheme; How to Set a Formal Table; Menus on the Plates; More ..." url: "https://diy.allwomenstalk.com/formal-tables-you-can-copy-for-any-event/" category: "diy" last_updated: "2026-06-02" --- # 12 Formal Tables You Can Copy for Any Event ... I'm not usually one for formal tables, but sometimes it's fun to go all out and set it up. Usually the parties I have are too crowded to serve a sit down meal. Every now and then, though, I have a smaller gathering and pull out my best china. Whether you're planning a intimate dinner date or are inviting relatives for a holiday dinner, they'll love the idea of formal tables as much as you do. Check out these great examples to inspire you. ## 1. Cloth Napkins ![Cloth Napkins](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/mc/ov/yiuc9x66_400x600.jpg) Via [Typography Inspired Wedding](https://ruffledblog.com/typography-inspired-wedding/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:) Nothing contributes elegance to formal tables more than a set of cloth napkins. You can choose them in a color that pairs with your dishes and [table decor](https://diy.allwomenstalk.com/coffee-table-decor-ideas-that-dont-require-a-home-stylist/) for a look that's welcoming and fun for everyone. You can also fold them into fancy patterns if you want. ## 2. Candles and Flowers ![Candles and Flowers](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/za/qq/o8xq5iva_588x818.jpg) Via [Sparkling Red Dinner Celebration](https://goo.gl/Z5czjG) You can add ambiance and just the right amount of lighting to your formally-set table by adding well placed vases full of flowers and lit candles. ## 3. Choose a Color Scheme ![Choose a Color Scheme](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/i1/wc/rg8zfsvz_500x500.jpg) Via [How To Set the Table](https://www.southernliving.com/food/entertaining/finger-bowl) Any table looks more sophisticated and elegant if you settle on a color palette instead of just tossing your favorite things onto the tables. Cohesion contributes to the formal feel. ## 4. How to Set a Formal Table ![How to Set a Formal Table](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/es/om/mn1iuutt_600x899.jpg) Via [How To Set A Formal ...](http://becauseimaddicted.net?ref=allwomenstalk.com) If you're unsure of where all the dishes should be placed, here's a simple primer that can help. This is one of the most confusing parts of setting a formal table, so instructions come in handy. ## 5. Menus on the Plates ![Menus on the Plates](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/iz/ht/dz65r93c_600x819.jpg) Via [Blush and Ivory Seaside Bridal ...](https://www.inspiredbythis.com/wed/inspired-by-this-blush-and-ivory-seaside-bridal-shower-2/) Add even more elegance to your tables by placing a menu on each plate so your guests know what they will be served for each course. ## 6. Incorporate It ![Incorporate It](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/kx/sm/swjea6mw_550x819.jpg) Via [The Enchanted Home](http://theenchantedhome.blogspot.com/2013/04/bloggers-beautiful-abodestina-from.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:) If you plan to serve guests in a room other than the dining room, incorporate the whole thing into your space. You can't see it back there, which is just what they were going for. ## 7. Don't Be Afraid of Color ![Don't Be Afraid of Color](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/nq/s2/f5vozfiv_600x900.jpg) Via [cjsoffthesquare.com](https://cjsoffthesquare.com/tag/fall/) While it's always a good idea to come up with a color scheme, that doesn't mean you have to stick to just one or two. Just be sure that the colors you choose go well together. ## 8. Keep It Simple ![Keep It Simple](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/bx/qy/kp8vpxuv_600x900.jpg) Via [The Perfect Palette: {Wedding Table ...](http://www.theperfectpalette.com/2011/09/tablescape-round-up-and-color-palettes.html) However, there's also something to be said for setting up a simple table with one main color. This is beautiful, isn't it? Perfect for a wedding I would say. ## 9. Low Centerpiece ![Low Centerpiece](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/eg/ty/odfzt9f5_600x902.jpg) Via [Gallery & Inspiration | Picture ...](https://www.stylemepretty.com/vault/image/1250523) Tall centerpieces add lots of emphasis to your formal table, but choosing shorter ones allows your guests to talk with each other across the table instead of being hidden from view. ## 10. Go for Symmetry ![Go for Symmetry](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/r2/en/afrxou8e_600x902.jpg) Via [Toronto Wedding at the Burrough's ...](https://www.stylemepretty.com/2013/11/14/toronto-wedding-at-the-burroughs-building-from-mango-studios/) I think that what's so appealing about this formal table is how symmetrical it is. Place your decor at even intervals and you create a visually appealing display that will put everyone at ease. ## 11. Plate Chargers ![Plate Chargers](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/ej/fb/hvbf8hjg_600x799.jpg) Via [The Thanksgiving Table](https://blog.williams-sonoma.com/the-thanksgiving-table/) You know how you sit at a formal table and there is already a plate there? Then you get another one with your meal on it? Those on the table are called chargers and simply allow you to set a formal table even for a sit down served meal. ## 12. Small Group ![Small Group](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/xj/ud/gfyzc94g_351x560.jpg) Via [In your back pocket...: striped ...](http://inyourbackpocket.blogspot.com/2012/03/striped-curtains.html) This is a great example of a formal table setting for a small crowd. You can keep everyone close enough for talking without giving up the elegance you want for your meal. How often do you set a formal table? What kinds of events do you think a formal table is good for? I like to do one for Christmas, that's for sure! Do you have any tips for getting it done right? ## Related Posts - [wedding etiquette](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/points-of-wedding-etiquette-to-remember/) - [the christmas wedding date](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/reasons-to-choose-a-christmas-wedding/) - [7 Ways to Incorporate Flowers into Your Wedding .....](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/ways-to-incorporate-flowers-into-your-wedding/) - [how to choose a wedding hairstyle](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/things-to-consider-before-choosing-a-wedding-hairstyle/) - [best guest media](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/social-media-tips-to-help-you-be-a-good-wedding-guest/) - [7 Ways to Prepare for the Wedding Season ...](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/ways-to-prepare-for-the-wedding-season/) - [7 Awesome Freebies to save Money at Your Wedding ....](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/awesome-freebies-to-save-money-at-your-wedding/) - [identify the place shown in the picture. photograp...](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/ways-to-handle-family-tension-at-a-wedding/) - [Best Wedding Gift: 7 Brothers Perform Epic Dance f...](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/best-wedding-gift-brothers-perform-epic-dance-for-their-sister/) - [7 Wedding DIY Projects That Will Make You a Happy ...](https://wedding.allwomenstalk.com/wedding-diy-projects-that-will-make-you-a-happy-bride/) - [7 Tips for Throwing a Dinner Party at the Last Min...](https://cooking.allwomenstalk.com/7-tips-for-throwing-a-dinner-party-at-the-last-minute/) - [12 Really Simple Appetizers ...](https://cooking.allwomenstalk.com/really-simple-appetizers/) ## Site Information - [Main page](https://allwomenstalk.com) - [Contact us](https://allwomenstalk.com/contact.html) - [HTML article](https://diy.allwomenstalk.com/formal-tables-you-can-copy-for-any-event/)