The art of dining. While the food is what brings us to the table, the visuals and conversations are what will be remembered most. Two reasons why:
The Art Of Dining
The art of dining is about more than just eating. We have the unique opportunity to stimulate all the senses of those dining. Take the time to know your guests and challenge yourself to see just how you might find individual ways to speak to them at the table.
- Each person will notice something very unique, about the spread that is a reflection of their taste, style, and personality.
- Eye candy, at a table setting, triggers conversation.
Flowers
Flowers. There are always those that will be drawn first to the arrangements on the table, whether flowers or herbs. These items on a table reflect life and generate a positive vibe at any table setting.
Dining Collectables
Collectables. Plates, vases, silver, pottery, and all the items food might be placed on as well as items placed around the table to ignite conversation.
These items could be something passed down in your family. This generates family history related stories.
Something you may have purchased with your partner, travels, gifts or simply a fabulous garage sale hunt. A slab of marble for a cheese presentation.
Linens, lighting, and trinkets set out to cause a guest to ask, “Where did you get this?”
Food Is Art
And then, of course, there is always the food. Food generates its own chatter. How was the meat prepared? Are crabs in season or is this crab dish from imported crabs? Colorful vegetable dishes prepared and displayed in creative ways.
Artisan cheeses. Many conversations start right there over the cheese spread with glass in hand. Oh, if only the cheese could tell you the whispers and secrets they have heard!
Table Settings As Art
Yes, a table-setting and all its visuals give guests much to start conversations over. But the spread itself, how it is presented, and what is served always tells much about the host.
It speaks volumes about their taste, style, and careful consideration to their guests.
The Camera Eats First
Be sure to take lots of pictures for future creative reference!
I believe the table... that place that draws people to gather, is the most powerful symbol of togetherness. All that happens before the table is set, the planning, the gathering, the preparing, are all an intricate part of the dance that create the mood of celebration to share with friends and loved ones.
