Charger plates are not a necessity for a wedding, but they can enhance the aesthetic and functionality of the table. They are purely decorative and can be an expensive addition to table settings. The decision to include charger plates in your wedding plans depends on personal preference, budget, and logistical challenges. However, they can have historical or ceremonial connotations that pay homage to cultural customs and rituals. Charger plates can be customized to match your unique design, style, and décor needs for your celebration or wedding.
Charger plates are an essential item on the checklist for any formal wedding or event, serving as a decorative base setting for other dinnerware during formal occasions. They are typically removed after dinner service and used as an elegant base for the dinner plate during the meal. They come in a variety of materials, colors, and designs, and can be creatively incorporated into your wedding plans.
Charger plates are not a requirement for weddings, but they can be a nice addition to table decor and enhance the dining experience. They are placed when other tableware items, such as cutlery and glasses, are placed on the table. They are kept throughout the table and can be used for various purposes, such as serving dishes, napkins, and cards.
Charger plates are more common for indoor ballroom settings, so skipping them won’t seem out of place. They can be used for various courses, napkins, and cards, and can be removed either after the starter course or the main course. They can also help tie everything together, and there is no law that they can’t be used for a buffet.
In conclusion, charger plates are not a requirement for weddings, but they can be a nice addition to table decor and are practical for any occasion. With imagination and DIY creativity, you can easily plan and enjoy your wedding without the need for charger plates.
📹 All About Charger Plates for Your Wedding or Formal Dinners
Wedding Planner at Helen G Events Helen Graham discusses the use of charger or base plates for your wedding reception decor.
Why do people use charger plates at weddings?
What is a charger plate? Charger plates are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Charger plates look good and make a table look nicer. They protect the table and tablecloth from getting dirty and help keep food warm. A charger plate is a large plate used to hold other dishes. Also called service plates, under plates, or chop plates, charger plates are for decoration and not for food. They make nice table displays at weddings, parties, and banquets. They’re a must-have for caterers at formal events. They’re also important at fine dining. We explain everything you need to know about service plates, from how to use a charger plate to the different types.
Skip ahead to the charger plate information you want: What are charger plates used for? How to use them. How to set a table with them. Types of charger plates. Charger plate materials. FAQs.
What is the etiquette for charger plates?
Once the table is clean, put the tablecloth down, then place the chargers on top of the linen. Place one charger at each guest’s setting, above the tablecloth, with enough space between each guest. They shouldn’t go past the edge of the table. Charger plates should be clean. Put the charger plates on the table before the guests arrive. Charger plates are for showing off food on the table. Charger plates are for presentation, not serving food. Don’t put food on the charger plate. What’s the difference between a charger plate and a dinner plate? Chargers are usually used for formal events and weddings. Charger plates are larger and more decorative than dinner plates. Dinner plates are for food. Chargers are for food, not food contact.
Do you need placemats if you use chargers?
You can put a charger on a tablecloth or placemat. You don’t need a placemat if you use a charger. Chargers keep tablecloths from getting stained and add color to the table. The charger plate is for soup bowls, salad plates, and entree dishes. Charger plates make your table setting pop. Your guests will feel special because of the chargers. Your table setting says a lot about you and your home.
The same is true for hosting an event elsewhere. Charger plates make your event look more special.
Are charger plates used instead of placemats?
You can put a charger on a tablecloth or placemat. You don’t need a placemat if you use a charger. Chargers keep tablecloths from getting stained and add color to the table. The charger plate is for soup bowls, salad plates, and entree dishes. Charger plates make your table setting pop. Your guests will feel special because of the chargers. Your table setting says a lot about you and your home.
The same is true for hosting an event elsewhere. Charger plates make your event look more special.
Can I use plastic plates at my wedding?
Many brides use plastic. Plasticware plates come in so many patterns that it’s hard to tell they’re not “real” until you hold them. I’ve seen plasticware with scalloped edges and eyelet patterns. You can also trim clear plasticware with gold, silver, or copper. Some use a clear plate with a charger underneath. Plastic plates look good with pretty lights and decorations. Paper plates don’t need to be like picnic paper plates. Biodegradable paper plate products are becoming popular. They can be impressive and pretty. As with the plastic plates, notice the picture of these lovely set tables with paper plates. Don’t you agree? For the bride who doesn’t want to pay for real plates but is unsure about the look, using real napkins on the tables is a good option. Stacking the plates in the buffet room and placing the napkins on the tables makes the tables look elegant. Guests won’t notice the plates in the buffet room as they grab their plates and start eating.
Do you remove charger plates before eating?
The word “charger” is used in America, but it is actually called a “service plate.” The service plate, or charger, is put down at the start of the meal and stays for some or all of the courses before the main dish. Once the main course is served, the charger is removed from the table. Dessert should never be served on a charger. Chargers serve different purposes, depending on the table and meal. Chargers come in different materials and can be used to protect tables from heat and condensation. They can also be decorative. Don’t put food directly on a charger.
4. What should you think about when choosing chargers for a dinner party?
What can I use instead of a wedding charger plate?
You don’t have to use plates at wedding receptions. Modern couples are thinking outside the box with fun alternatives. Consider a wooden slab for a country wedding or fabric pieces for a bohemian fall wedding.
Whether you’re having a summer wedding or a modern affair, these 20 unique wedding charger ideas will make a statement at any reception. If you’re hosting your wedding in a special place, use your chargers to show your love for the area. For their wedding in Portugal, Kate Moon and Greg Brandt chose blue-and-white Portuguese tiles as their wedding theme. The ceramic plates introduced guests to the local culture.
What is the proper etiquette for charger plates?
The word “charger” is used in America, but it is actually called a “service plate.” The service plate, or charger, is put down at the start of the meal and stays for some or all of the courses before the main meal. Once the main course is served, the charger is removed from the table. Dessert should never be served on a charger. Chargers serve different purposes, depending on the table and meal. Chargers come in different materials and can be used to protect tables from heat and condensation. They can also be decorative. Don’t put food directly on a charger.
4. What should you think about when choosing chargers for a dinner party?
Are chargers necessary?
Charger plates and placemats protect and decorate. They keep table linens safe from spills, stains, oils, and food. They also add color, patterns, and layers to your table setting. Chargers and placemats differ in how they’re used. Chargers are usually removed after dinner, while placemats stay on the table. They come in different materials, like cotton, linen, wicker, or plastic. When to use chargers or placemats. Use a placemat or charger plate to decorate your table if you’re planning an event with a meal. These items are common at formal events.
Do it yourself charger plates?
Make a plate charger from fabric. Trace a circle onto cardboard with a pencil. Cut it out. Cut a circle of fabric. Place the cardboard circle onto the wrong side of the fabric. Cut small notches around the edge of the fabric. Your chargers are ready.
Ever wanted to make your own charger plates? It’s easy. Here are the instructions to make them for almost free. Make these for Mother’s Day, summer entertaining, or a get-together with friends. You can make them in minutes for almost nothing.
I’d open the door wide. You’d smell the best candles ever (inexpensive and dupes for a more expensive candle). You’d see how much I love blue and white. Buddy would come say hello with his tail wagging. You’d see that the dining room is across from the living room to the left of the front door.
Do you need a charger plate for a wedding?
1. Your place settings look empty without them. Your tables will look empty without something in your guests’ places. Adding charger plates makes your table decor look more finished and inviting. Without them, your guests might feel underwhelmed. Charger plates are a great way to show off your wedding details. A charger plate is the perfect place to add small details that guests will notice. A charger plate lets you arrange your wedding table differently, so you can add more of your own style. #3. Finishing touches. A charger plate can also tie your table decorations together. You may want more color, contrast, or texture on the table. Your guests will want to touch everything! Charger plates can match other decor items like candle sticks and frames, making everything look good.
Do people still use charger plates?
It is also called a service plate or an underplate. Chargers are used for decoration, but they were originally used to protect tables from hot plates.
📹 MY TOP 5 EVENT PLANNING FAVORITES | FRIDAY FIVES| TABLE CHARGER EDITION
This video houses my must-have elegant table chargers for home decor and event planning! They are both affordable and …
Clear Rhinestone Charger: tableclothsfactory.com/products/2-pack-13-silver-jeweled-rim-premium-glass-mirror-charger-plates?sca_ref=610885.6vJ0OyHSYC Acrylic Gold Beaded Charger: tableclothsfactory.com/products/6-pack-12-clear-acrylic-round-charger-plates-with-gold-beaded-rim?sca_ref=610885.6vJ0OyHSYC Glass Silver Beaded Charger: tableclothsfactory.com/products/8-pack-12-round-silver-beaded-rim-glass-charger-plates?sca_ref=610885.6vJ0OyHSYC Reef Charger: tableclothsfactory.com/products/6-pack-13-round-reef-gold-plastic-charger-plates?sca_ref=610885.6vJ0OyHSYC Bling Charger: tableclothsfactory.com/products/14-silver-wired-metal-charger-plate-with-108-acrylic-crystal-beads?sca_ref=610885.6vJ0OyHSYC Black and Gold Charger: tableclothsfactory.com/products/pack-of-6-13-black-gold-scalloped-edge-acrylic-plastic-charger-plates?sca_ref=610885.6vJ0OyHSYC
Great article and Series Melanie. I love your chargers the gold beaded chargers are gorgeous. I have two requests do you mind sharing your top 5 ways of getting clientele as a beginner event decorator as well as your top 5 things to buy when first starting off in event decorating. Thank you and have a blessed day.
I love them all especially the way that you used them in your decor! My favorite is the mirrored charger. You have inspired me so much as I have watched you over the years. I will watch all content from tablescapes, events, travel, fashion, favorite foods @ home or events, interior decorating. I love your style. I also enjoy your life lessons that you post. I am here for all of your content first lady.
Melanie, I loved your favorite five things Friday show, featuring charger plates. I loved the various chargers but my favorite is the clear rhinestone edged charger. I would love to see you do a variety of five favorites dining tablescapes, fashions, travels, foods/beverages, books, etc. Take care 💞