Setting the proper table is a skill, and having an understanding of the small details specific to dining etiquette pays off when entertaining a guest, a client or an entire wedding party. One such detail is the charger plate. Many people are confused about the oversized plate that sits on the table underneath the dinner plate. It’s called a charger. Also referred to as underplate or service plate, a charger is one way to enhance the dining experience.
Often made of porcelain, painted metallic resin or wicker, you may see them in use at weddings, dinner parties and at many fine-dining restaurants. In a recent Martha Stewart Weddings article, Hannah Nowack explains: “Chargers are certainly a small element of your reception’s tablescape, but their potential impact can’t be overstated.” Keep reading for more about this foundational part of the place setting.
When To Remove It From the Table
The charger is set on the table before guests have arrived and removed either before the main course is served or, if preferred, taken away when removing the dinner plate after the meal, before dessert. Each course prior, such as salad and soup, may be eaten with the charger in place. When the entrée arrives at the table, the server or host will remove the charger and replace it with the main course or take it away in one step with the empty dinner plate. (I prefer to remove it before the main course.)
Purpose of a Charger Plate
Chargers serve an essential purpose, including protecting the table from heat and keeping unnecessary markings and rings from imprinting on the dining table, which are virtually impossible to remove unless re-sanded and stained. They are also decorative in purpose, with some hosts having their chargers monogrammed with initials or collecting holiday-themed chargers.
Sets the Mood With the Right Choice
Walking up to a stunningly set table sets the mood for an equally beautiful experience. Along with crystal wine glasses and pretty utensils—often handed down from a previous generation—a charger elevates the ambiance of an elegant dinner.
The Difference Between a Charger and a Dinner Plate
A charger is not meant to look like a serving platter or to have food eaten off of it. It’s smaller than a meat platter but larger than a dinner plate. If the table is preset for the guests, oftentimes, a charger will be made of a different color or material or have a rim of metallic silver or gold around it to emphasize where the dinner plate stops and the charger begins for a visual aesthetic highlight.
Other Uses
Add a napkin or doily on top of the charger to serve tea sandwiches, appetizers, pre-sliced pound cake or small cookies. It no longer looks like a charger with a piece of decorative covering on top. It can also hold a variety of votives in different sizes and shapes for the entry table or other areas in the house.
Additional Accessories for the Table
To further enhance the table experience, beautiful table linen, menu cards, name cards, individual salt and pepper cellars and napkin rings add an additional touch that leaves a lasting impression.
For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go to” social and professional (manners) skills authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas.
See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook. Find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account and keep up with her latest tweets. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram