Springtime… the season of party planning in Kentucky!
In Kentucky, not only does “April Showers bring May Flowers” it’s also one of the prettiest times of the year. Long awaited days of spring as things begin to bloom and we gear up for entertaining and of course, the best two minutes in sports.
Being Southern, I love this time of party planning, entertaining, dusting off the outdoor furniture and begin a time when I think Kentucky is at her finest. While in Georgia recently, I stumbled upon a new Ballard Design store and was perusing through all the things we get to only see via catalog. Gorgeous plates, platters, glasses, tableware (did I mention I have a dish fetish?) and a small book Elements of the Table, a Simple Guide for Hosts and Guests by Lynn Rosen.
Amazon link; no affiliation, I just like it! Elements of the Table, a Simple Guide for Hosts and Guests
I can hear my children complaining when we are supporting them as to how to properly set the table, table manners for that manner, and which fork goes with what? This book is a simple, easy read, yet very interesting. Offering guidance on subjects like “Where did napkin rings come from and for what purpose? Why are some knives rounded at the top? What exactly is a doily and where did it come from?”
I know for some of you, these questions keep you up at night but the answers proved very interesting. So, test your skills with these questions:
True or False: Always unfold your napkin on your lap.
FALSE! A large dinner napkin should be kept folded in half on your lap, with the opening to the front. A luncheon napkin can be fully opened on your lap. Did you realize there we two different sizes, and if so the difference?
What is the maximum number of any one utensil you will find at a formal place setting?
No more than three of any one utensil is appropriate. If additional pieces are needed, bring them in with the course with which they are to be used. (Exception! A place setting may have four forks IF a seafood appetizer is being served)
True or False: You should use your individual butter knife to spread the butter onto your bread.
FALSE! Trick question. The piece of silver that has been set on the individual bread and butter plate is not a butter knife but a butter spreader. The butter knife is the serving piece used with the main plate of butter.
What is the dinner signal to let the waiter know you are finished with your meal?
Finally:
Which of the following foods cannot be eaten with one’s fingers at a formal dinner? Chicken legs, asparagus, celery, artichokes
Answer: Chicken Legs!
Whatever style of party you are having, the bottom line is to have enough food and drink, and I like to “set the scene/theme”. However, at the end of the day taking time to enjoy your company and all that Spring has to offer is always the best advice! Happy party planning!
Off and Running! Cheers!
