Does this look familiar to you? This is a formal table setting (a rather elaborate one). If you sit down at a table that is set like this and find yourself wondering which water glass on the table is yours or which fork you use for what...then worry no more sister! I am here to save you! Whether it is just a nice dinner, a rehearsal dinner or even your own wedding you will look like a pro from here on out.
(For the sake of making things simple, we are going to ignore fork "J")
So, first thing is first, as soon as you are seated you lay your napkin across your lap. The silverware is set in a way that, lucky for you, is totally fail proof! You simply begin with the silverware farthest out from the plate and work your way towards the plate.
So fork "H" as well as spoon "M" would be used first for the appetizer, soup and or salad along with knife "L" if you find that you need it.
The bread and butter plate will always be found to your right (top), like the butter knife and plate "D" shown and the glasses (however many) that belong to you will always be found to your left, by your knives (E, F and G).
{HINT: remember "Loaf" to the left and "Refreshment" to the right}
Fork "I" and knife "K" are for the main entree (on plate "B"). The entree fork and knife are normally larger than the one meant for your appetizers.
When you are through with your meal all of the plates and silverware should be cleared with the exception of your drink (E, F or G) and your dessert fork and spoon (labeled "N"). That leaves you with nothing to do but enjoy your delicious dessert!
That's it ladies! SO easy! Enjoy your meal and impress everyone with your skills!
