Banquets and feasts have been around almost as long as food itself, and there is no surprise why. Gathering together for a banquet satisfies two of the most basic human needs – to eat and to socialize – while also granting two of the most basic human wants – to celebrate each other and to experience a good time. Part of what makes a memorable banquet, in addition to good food and good company, is a beautifully arranged banquet table. Putting together a spectacular table is easy if you take it step by step, starting with the table layout itself and working your way up to the perfect decor. Below is a basic guide to get you started, including some helpful links to a more in-depth look at each individual step.

1. Layout

Before you start spreading the tables with linens, dishware, and decor, you need to decide exactly how your tables and chairs will be laid out and get them in place. Moving tables around after they have been set and decorated is not only difficult (and often heavy), but it can also be dangerous. All it takes is one misbalanced step to send everything crashing down. If you need help deciding how to lay out your event, check out our posts on common reception layouts and maximizing small venue spaces. You can also stop by the office and speak to one of our consultants who would be happy to provide floor planning assistance at no cost.

2. Linens

Once you have your tables in place, you can begin laying down your tablecloths, overlays, and runners. This is where you’ll start laying the foundations of color and texture for your event. Have fun layering different colors, textures, shapes, and sizes of linens to create the perfect look. If you’re not sure how to choose a cohesive color palette, check out our post on harmonious color schemes. If you need help figuring out what size tablecloths you need and what type of fabric to choose, take a moment to read our post on tablecloth fabric types, as well as our linens FAQ.

3. Place Settings

After you lay out your linens and arrange them to perfection, it’s time to add your place settings. Start by defining the individual places with placemats or chargers, then build up and out by adding plates, flatware, and glasses. While setting a table for a casual event is fairly straightforward and flexible, setting a formal banquet table does have some general rules as to where each element belongs. Check out our table setting guide for more information on setting a table like a pro.

4. Glasses

While plates and flatware function much the same across shapes and styles, glassware can be a bit more complicated. The most common glassware you’ll find at an event include water goblets, wine glasses, and champagne flutes, but there are many other glass options available depending on the types of drinks you want to serve. The table setting guide mentioned above shows you where the glasses should be set at a table and how multiple glasses should be arranged, but our beginner’s guide to drinkware goes over each of the commonly used glass types and what they are used for.

5. Final Touches

Once you have included all the elements needed for a functional banquet table, it is time to add all the aesthetic final touches to bring everything together. Add centerpieces, florals, candles, place cards, table numbers, menu cards, and anything else that you want your guests to have access to immediately upon seating. You can include napkins in the decor by incorporating napkin folds or rings (check out these 8 napkin fold tutorials to get started). You can shower your guests with convenience by prefilling water goblets with ice and water, by including salt and pepper shakers, sugar packets, and bowls of sliced lemon, and by providing ready-to-eat baskets of fresh bread with pats of butter. These final touches are what make the biggest difference, turning what could otherwise be an immaculate showroom display into a lively and inviting banquet that your guests will rave about for months.