Your guests get to see the table, laid out and set, before they lay their hands on the food. Why not make the first impression last? Here are some rules to follow to have that impression.

We all know that table provides a pleasant setting. Decorate it attractively with little artistic touches. Also remember, the table is set for connivance and ease in eating. Since most of us are right handed, knives are usually placed on the right and forks on the left. Therefore, lay out your best china, glassware and silverware with logic and creativity and the rest will flow naturally.

Western style: Since table setting originated in the west, it’s best to examine its basic principles before learning how to adapt them to Indian eating.

The table cloth: Using a tablecloth is optional. If you have a lovely glass or marble topped table, then you would prefer to show it off rather than cover it. If you use a table cloth, pick snow white or pastel shades, which provide a simple and elegant background for the food. For formal occasions, use a white damask tablecloth.

Table mats: Strictly speaking, either a tablecloth or mats are required on the table. However, it has become standard practice to use both, probably to avoid unnecessary staining of the tablecloth. Place the mats in line with the edge of the table right in front of the chair. Space the place settings equidistance apart.

Dinner plates: Highly decorative plates do not allow one to appreciate the appearance of the food, which is just as important as flavor. The dinner plate is placed in the center of the mat such that it must be in front of the person eating from it.

Cutlery: Whether silver, stainless steel or colored, precise rules govern the placing of cutlery. Depending upon your menu, count the number and the type of knives, forks and spoons that will be required by each guest. Knives and spoons are placed to the right of the dinner plate; forks to the left. The cutting edge of the knife is to be the turned inwards.

Glasses: Glasses should be preferably be clear and uncolored so that one can appreciate the color of the wine. Set the glass in order of use above the knives.

Napkins: The napkin traditionally sits on the left side of the plate, outside of the dishes, but it is acceptable to place it on top of the plate or in drinking glass.

Avoid cluttering up your table: Do not put out utensils that won’t ever be used. If your menu doesn’t include anything to be eaten with tea spoons, don’t put them on the table. If you are planning to serve the coffee and desert after ward, bring out the appropriate cutlery later on. For less formal occasions, you may remove unnecessary pieces such as fish forks and knives.