If someone sets a table for a formal dinner and doesn't have servants to clear the plates and begin the meal. What do they do? Do they clear it themselves? It seems cumbersome, especially if you have a lot of guests. How do you do it in your own homes?
2007-12-14 15:52:00 · 4 answers · asked by gldneagles0311 2 in Food & Drink ➔ Entertaining
AV I meant at first when you have the table set. You have all the course plates on top of one another. If you went around and took the plates of the courses that come later you'd be carrying about four plates from each person and it seems like a lot of work while they are waiting. I guess if someone helps it's not so bad.
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Servants is a term used in polite conversation. It comes from the word serve, which is what they do. They are not maids, or waiters, and although sometimes one maybe a butler, they are not all. So if you can think of a better word feel free to share. Either way servants is a general term and not derrogatory.
2007-12-14 16:43:55 · update #1
Clear it yourself... someone will join in.
And they probably don't like to be called servants...
2007-12-14 15:56:36 · answer #1 · answered by MS 2 · 0⤊ 3⤋
If it's a formal sit down dinner, you will have to clear the plates yourself. Be sure you plan on sitting at the end of your table, with your spouse situated at the other end. Give your guests plenty of time to finish a course, and have hubby make sure they have their water/wine glasses full before clearing the table. Then get up and gather the plates from the right of each diner....but do so quietly. They will most likely drink and talk among themselves. If you are counting on help, ask a guest ahead of time so that the interruption is minimal. Offer thanks, but discourage any more ladies from leaving the table. Hubby should remain with the guests, unless you have no other help. The absence of the hosts can upset a pleasant atmosphere.
2007-12-15 00:36:28 · answer #2 · answered by cantbeme_2000 4 · 5⤊ 0⤋
You can have a formal dinner and not have the plates cleared for you......it doesn't sound like you have anyone "serving" the courses, so it would be proper to excuse yourself and ask to take their plates and when someone steps up to help you, say, "no, it's my pleasure to take your plate"......that is true hospitality. No one will notice wheather or not you have "servants" or "maids," but they will remember your party by your true servanthood and hospitality and you'll be the one known in the party scene as "the host(ess) with the most." Trust me, I've hosted many dinner parties both formal and informal and I have a 2000 sq. ft. home, teenagers in tow, a dog who loves to beg, but I'm known as the one who throws the best parties and has the best food because it is all about how you welcome your friends into your home and what to prepare and don't forget your presentation. Good luck with your dinner party!
2007-12-15 01:07:07 · answer #3 · answered by jenny 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You remove the plates of course and ask, "can I take your plate" or something like, "anyone ready for coffee?". Someone will get up and help, they always do - it's just part of the mingle and meal.
If you serve courses, just be sure to keep the warm items warm while waiting to finish salads or the first course, oh...and start the coffee so that it is ready when you are.
2007-12-15 00:21:46 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋