Special Decorations

The setting of the table offers almost unlimited scope for the expression of the individuality of the hostess.

There can be no cut and dried rule as to table decoration. This is entirely a matter for the originality of the hostess or the caterer, for the originality of the hostess or the caterer.

It is possible to create very effective settings without extravagant cost if some definite idea is first outlined and then suggested by the decoration.

By way of suggestion, very clever table settings may be accomplished, using special occasions, special days or original ideas as motives. For instance, betrothal announcements, showers, weddings, the recurrent anniversaries, birthdays, commencements, and other such events offer unlimited possibilities for original expression.

The West, with its romance, its scenic charms, and the beautiful colorings offered in the variety of its fruits and flowers, together with the ever-artistic and sentimental old mission effects, affords a wide field for decorative fantasies.

There are also many patriotic days - Washington's Birthday, Lincoln Day, Independence Day, Decoration Day, and, of course, the good old holidays - St. Valentine's Day, Easter, Hallowe'en, Thanksgiving, Christmas. New Year's Day - each presenting its individual opportunities for effective table decoration.

Other beautiful decoration schemes may be carried out by the use of maline and the liberal use of flowers, either in solid colors or in contrasting shades. For this purpose we suggest the many unusual flower centerpieces.

Children's parties are also very susceptible to very clever table decoration. The ages of the children to be entertained, the occasion of their entertainment, and their particular inclinations, influence to an important degree the character of the decorations.

When Dinner Is Announced

The host, with his partner, leads the way to the dining room. At the table, cards are placed at each cover showing the seating arrangement. Each gentleman draws out the lady's chair, waits until the host and ladies are seated then seats himself.

Order Of Seating And Serving People At Table

The guest of honor, if a man, should be seated at the right of the hostess; if a woman, at the right of the host.

The order of serving is very largely a matter of individual inclination.

All the women may be served before the men, beginning with the hostess or guest of honor.

Or the guest of honor or the hostess may be served first and then the next person, irrespective of whether man or woman, continuing thus around the table. It is advisable to serve one course around the table to the right and the other around the table to the left, so that the courtesies may be equally divided.

When the hostess is served first it enables her to judge as to whether the dish is properly served and provided with necessary accessories.