Question 1

What is the purpose of chargers under dinner plates?

Accepted Answer

The purpose of chargers under dinner plates, also known as service plates, is multifaceted. Primarily, they are used to enhance the aesthetic of the table setting by adding an extra layer of decoration. Chargers can be found in various designs and materials, allowing them to complement different themes and styles of events.

In addition to their decorative purpose, chargers also have a functional role. They are placed on the table before guests sit down to eat and serve as a base for soup bowls and plates that are used for the first course. This helps to keep the table clean, as they catch any food or spills that may occur during the meal.

Moreover, chargers help to retain heat in dinnerware, keeping the food warmer for longer. This is especially beneficial in a formal dining setting where the time between serving courses can be quite significant.

To sum up, chargers under dinner plates serve both a decorative and practical purpose, contributing to the overall dining experience by enhancing table aesthetics, maintaining cleanliness, and keeping food warm.

Question 2

What are the benefits of using charger plates and placemats?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates and placemats offer several benefits when it comes to event planning and table setting. Firstly, they enhance the aesthetic appeal of your table setting. Charger plates are available in various designs, shapes, and colors, allowing you to match them with your event's theme or color scheme. Similarly, placemats can add a layer of elegance and sophistication to your table setting.

Secondly, charger plates and placemats play a practical role in protecting your table and tablecloth from spills and stains. They act as a barrier between the tableware and the table, thereby minimizing potential damage or mess.

Thirdly, they help in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene. By providing a dedicated space for each guest's tableware, charger plates and placemats reduce the chances of cross-contamination.

Lastly, they contribute to the overall dining experience. A well-set table with charger plates and placemats demonstrates attention to detail and can make your guests feel special and valued. Hence, they are not just decorative pieces but also tools that enhance the functionality and experience of dining.

Question 3

Are charger plates usually plastic?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates, also known as service plates, under plates, or chop plates, can be made from a variety of materials, not just plastic. While it's true that plastic charger plates are popular due to their affordability and durability, they are not the only type available. Charger plates can also be made from glass, metal, wood, or even porcelain. The choice of material often depends on the aesthetic or theme of the event. For instance, glass or porcelain charger plates might be chosen for a more formal, elegant event, while plastic or metal might be used for less formal or outdoor events. Therefore, it's not accurate to say charger plates are usually plastic, as the material can vary significantly based on the event's style, theme, and budget.

Question 4

What is the proper etiquette for charger plates?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates, also known as service plates, are large, decorative plates used to dress up dinner tables at parties, weddings, and other formal events. They are not used for serving food; instead, they are meant to mark the place setting for each guest and to enhance the decor of the table.

The proper etiquette for charger plates is to position them at each place setting before the guests arrive. They should be placed one inch away from the edge of the table and centered in front of each chair. All other tableware items, such as dinner plates, silverware, and glasses, should be arranged around the charger plate.

When it comes to serving food, the first course can be placed directly on the charger plate. However, after the first course is cleared, the charger plate should be removed before the main course is served. If you're hosting a more formal event, the charger plate can remain on the table until the dessert is served.

In terms of cleaning, charger plates should be wiped clean after each use. They are typically not dishwasher safe, so it's important to check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure they are properly cared for.

Remember, while charger plates can add a touch of elegance to any event, they are entirely optional. Their use depends on the formality and style of the event you're planning.

Question 5

Are plastic chargers OK for a wedding?

Accepted Answer

Yes, plastic chargers can be perfectly suitable for a wedding. The use of plastic chargers largely depends on the style and formality of the event. For a more casual or outdoor wedding, plastic chargers can be an excellent choice as they are durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. They also come in a variety of colors and designs, allowing you to match them to your wedding theme or decor. However, for more formal or elegant weddings, you might prefer to use chargers made from glass, china, or metal for a more sophisticated look. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference and the overall style of your wedding.

Question 6

What is the etiquette for charger plates?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates, also known as service plates, underplates, or chop plates, are large, decorative plates that act as base settings for other dinnerware. They are not meant for serving food directly but are used to dress up a table setting and retain heat in dinnerware.

In terms of etiquette, charger plates should be positioned at each dining place setting before guests are seated. They are typically placed beneath the soup bowl, salad plate, or entrée plate to catch any spills or crumbs that may fall during the meal. Charger plates should be approximately one to two inches from the edge of the table and all utensils should be arranged around them.

The charger plate remains on the table until the main course is served, at which point it can be removed. However, in some formal dining instances, the charger plate stays until the end of the meal, when it is replaced with a dessert plate. It's also important to note that charger plates should match the style and theme of the event to ensure a cohesive look.

In summary, charger plates are an integral part of formal table settings, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the dining experience. Their use requires a certain etiquette, including their placement, when they should be removed, and how they should be styled.

Question 7

Do people still use chargers under plates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, people still use chargers under plates, especially during formal dining events or festive occasions. Chargers, also known as service plates, underliners, or chop plates, are large decorative plates that are placed beneath the dinner plate as part of the table setting. They are not only used to protect the tablecloth from spills and heat but also to add an elegant touch to the table decor. While their use is less common in casual dining settings, they continue to be a popular choice for weddings, banquets, and other formal events. Chargers can be made of various materials such as porcelain, glass, or metal, and their design can range from simple and classic to ornate and intricate, depending on the theme of the event.

Question 8

Do you wash charger plates?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates, also known as service plates or underplates, are primarily decorative and are not typically used to directly serve food. Therefore, they do not typically require frequent washing. However, it's important to maintain their appearance and cleanliness, especially if they are used in events or special dinners. If they do become dirty or dusty, they can be gently cleaned.

The cleaning method depends on the material of the charger plate. For plastic or glass charger plates, a mild soap and warm water can be used. They should be hand washed using a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching the surface. It's not recommended to put them in a dishwasher as the high temperatures and harsh detergents can damage them.

For metal charger plates like gold or silver, they should be cleaned with a product specifically designed for that metal to avoid tarnishing. Always remember to dry your charger plates thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots or damage.

In conclusion, while charger plates don't often require washing due to their decorative purpose, they can and should be cleaned as needed to maintain their aesthetic appeal. It's important to use the correct cleaning methods based on their material for the best care and longevity of the plates.

Question 9

When should charger plates be removed?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates, also known as service plates, are primarily used for decorative purposes in a formal dining setting. They are typically placed at each guest's place setting before they arrive at the table. The charger plates should remain on the table throughout the meal until the main course is served. Once the main course is ready to be served, the charger plates should be removed from the table. However, in some dining traditions, charger plates may also be left on the table during the serving of the main course and removed before dessert is served. It's important to note that food should never be directly placed on the charger plate; it's meant to hold the plate for the first course.

Question 10

Does anyone use charger plates anymore?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates, also known as service plates or underplates, are still widely used today, especially in formal dining events, weddings, high-end restaurants, and special occasions. These plates, which are larger than standard dinner plates, serve both functional and decorative purposes. They help protect the tablecloth from spills and heat, while also adding an elegant touch to the table setting. Charger plates come in various materials such as glass, metal, or ceramic, and in a range of designs, allowing for a high degree of customization to match the event's theme or decor. So, while they may not be common in everyday dining, charger plates continue to be a popular choice for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a dining experience in more formal or festive settings.

Question 11

When should I use charger plates and placemats?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates and placemats are typically used in formal dining settings to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the table and protect it from heat, spills, and scratches. Charger plates, also known as service plates, are larger decorative plates used to dress up special occasions like weddings and upscale dinner parties. They are placed on the table before guests arrive and serve as an underplate for courses that precede the main course. Once the main course is served, the charger plate is usually removed.

On the other hand, placemats are used more frequently, even in casual dining settings. They are placed directly on the table where the actual plates, cups, and utensils will be set. Placemats serve both a functional and decorative purpose. They protect the table from heat and possible food spills, while also adding color and style to the table setting.

In terms of when to use them, charger plates are typically reserved for more formal, multi-course meals, while placemats can be used for any meal, whether it's a simple breakfast, a casual lunch, or a dinner party. However, the choice to use charger plates and placemats ultimately depends on the occasion, the formality of the event, and your personal style preference.

Question 12

Why should I use charger plates and placemats?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates and placemats are essential elements in table setting that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Charger plates, also known as service plates, are larger than regular dinner plates. They are typically placed underneath the dinner plate to protect the tablecloth or table from spills and heat damage. They also help to catch any food that may fall from the dinner plate, keeping the table clean.

On the aesthetic side, charger plates add an extra layer of sophistication and elegance to the table setting. They help to define each person's space and can be matched with the table decor to create a cohesive and pleasing visual effect.

Placemats, on the other hand, serve a similar purpose. They protect the table surface from heat, spills, and scratches. They also provide a defined area for each diner's place setting, making the table appear neat and organized.

In addition, placemats can be a key element in the overall table decor. They come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and materials, allowing you to add a personal touch to the table setting. They can be used to complement the tablecloth, the charger plates, or other elements of the table decor.

In conclusion, using charger plates and placemats not only protects your table but also enhances the overall dining experience by adding an element of elegance and personal style.

Question 13

What are charger plates and placemats?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates and placemats are both essential elements in a table setting, especially during formal dining events. Charger plates, also known as service plates, underplates, or chop plates, are large, decorative plates used to dress up dinner tables at parties, weddings, and other special events. They're typically placed beneath the dinner plate to add elegance and style to the table setting. Charger plates are usually made of materials like glass, porcelain, or metal and can come in a variety of colors and designs to match the event's theme.

On the other hand, placemats are used to protect the table surface from food or drink spills, heat damage, and scratches. They are placed directly under the plate and cutlery. Placemats can be made from a variety of materials, including cloth, vinyl, or woven plastic, and they also come in various shapes, sizes, and designs. They not only serve a practical function but also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the table setting.

In essence, while both charger plates and placemats enhance the visual appeal of a table setting, charger plates are more about aesthetics and formality, and placemats are more about protecting the table and keeping it clean.

Question 14

Why do they call them charger plates?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates, also known as service plates, underplates, or chop plates, derive their name from the old French word "chargeur," which translates to "loader" or "loader of plates." Initially, these large plates were used to serve food or to 'charge' the dinnerware on the table. However, in modern formal dining, charger plates have a more decorative purpose. They are typically larger than regular dinner plates, providing an elegant and enhanced aesthetic appeal to table settings. These plates are placed beneath the food-serving dish to prevent spills and stains on the tablecloth, acting as a base for soup bowls and main course dinner plates. The charger plates are usually removed before serving desserts. Their usage and the decorative element they add to the dining experience are why they are called "charger plates."

Question 15

How do you use charger plates and placemats?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates and placemats are key elements in setting a formal or decorative table. Charger plates, also known as service plates, are large decorative plates used as a base setting for other dinnerware. They are not typically used to serve food but are meant to enhance the aesthetic of the table.

To use a charger plate, you would first place it at each dining spot on the table. It is placed directly on the table or on top of a tablecloth or placemat. The dinner plate and soup bowl are then placed on top of the charger. The charger remains on the table for all courses preceding the main course, after which it can be removed.

Placemats, on the other hand, are used to protect the table from heat and stains. They also add a decorative element to your table setting. To use a placemat, you would place one at each seating position. The charger or dinner plate would then be placed in the center of the placemat, with cutlery on either side, and the glassware positioned at the top right corner.

In some settings, you might use both a charger plate and placemat together. The placemat would be placed first, followed by the charger plate, and then the dinner plate. This arrangement creates a layered look that can add depth and interest to your table setting. Remember, the key is to balance functionality with aesthetics to create a pleasing and practical table setting.

Question 16

Should charger plates be plastic?

Accepted Answer

Charger plates, also known as service plates, can indeed be made of plastic, and this is often a cost-effective choice for large events or gatherings. However, the material of the charger plates should align with the aesthetic and formality of the event. While plastic chargers are durable and affordable, they may not provide the same elegance as charger plates made from glass, porcelain, or metal. Therefore, while plastic charger plates are perfectly acceptable, it's important to consider the overall look and feel of your event when making your selection.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Charger Plates & Placemats

1. Where to buy charger plates and placemats?

2. Why charger plates are not safe for food?

3. What to use instead of charger plates?

4. What shape placemats for round table?