If you’ve ever been to a wedding or any other formal dinner occasion, you may have seen a big decorative plate under your eating plate. But have you ever wondered what that decorative plate is? This plate is called a charger plate, and they have more use than you’d think. These plates are used in formal dinners or any other special occasion where dinner is served. They can be an essential part of tablescapes and give a decorative look for any occasion. So what are charger plates? Below, we will look at what these plates are, what they’re used for, and their benefits.
What is a charger plate?
The most basic definition of a charger plate is a more extensive, decorative base where other dinnerware is placed during formal occasions like weddings, banquets, parties, or any other catered meal. These plates also have many different names like service plates, chop plates, or underplates. These plates are just used as decoration for these events and are not intended to contact food. Instead, these plates offer an elegant way to serve food in multiple courses where each meal is served on a plate or in a bowl that is put on top of the charger plate. Charger dishes come in a wide variety of designs like different colors and materials to match any decor for any occasion.
What is the best way to use a charger plate?
The first step in using a charger plate is finding the perfect charger plate for your event. Think of the different materials and styles and your other decorative pieces like floral arrangements and tablecloth colors. When choosing the perfect dish, think of the food you will serve and how it will go with the plate. Next, you want to set your table. This includes laying out the dinnerware and glassware. When setting up charger plates, they should be two feet from each other to ensure that guests have enough elbow room. After the table is set and everything is in order, it is time to serve your guests. Plates and bowls are placed directly on top of the charger plate when serving guests. Finally, be sure to clean your charger dishes between uses.
What are the rules of a charger plate?
As with many formal dinners, there are rules to using charger dishes. This is the etiquette of charger dishes and should be followed. The first rule is to have the charger dishes ready before guests arrive. They should be a part of your tablescape, and guests should be able to see them when they sit at the table for the meal. Next, charger dishes are removed only when all guests are finished eating. Traditionally charger dishes are removed when the dinner plates are taken away. Finally, always ensure that no food comes in direct contact with the charger plate. Some foods can be served on these dishes, but only if the chargers are made with a food-grade material.
What other uses does a charger plate have?
While the main focus of these plates is to be part of the tablescape and serve meals to guests, they do have other uses. For example, these plates are the perfect size to serve guests appetizers at events before the dinner starts and give an elegant look. Charger dishes can also be used for flowers or candles to make a stunning centerpiece for your table.
A charger plate is perfect for any dinner party.
Whether you are hosting an elegant dinner party, birthday event, or wedding, charger dishes are the perfect touch to bring all the decor together and add a touch of elegance. These plates come in a wide variety of materials to fit any theme.
