Gratitude is a universal feeling and expression. However, when it comes to the Thanksgiving table (or any table for that matter) there is protocol and etiquette to a proper display.

A Proper Setting (from top to bottom and left to right):

·         first, is the place card in the center

·         then, the dessert spoon and cake fork are placed above the plates centered below them

·         to the left of those are the bread plate and knife

·         the water, red wine, or white wine glasses are to the right of the dessert utensils

·         below those and first to the left is the napkin

·         then the salad fork is to the left of the dinner fork and both are on the left side of the plates

·         in the center, the salad plate is placed on top of the dinner plate

·         then on the right side of the plates are the knife, teaspoon, and soup spoon (in that order)

·         the tea/coffee cup and saucer are to the upper right of the soup spoon

A Proper Toast:

·         in a small group, it’s best to get everyone’s attention by just standing to give a toast

·         when clinking the glasses, look each person in the eye as it is a gesture of kinship and friendship

Lastly, first and foremost, it’s always proper to just enjoy the pure love of fellowship and gathering with family and friends.

-Mar

photo: @jordanarnold