At one point in time, we have all undoubtedly been stumped by a tricky table setting. What to do with that extra fork or pesky bread dish?

Well, The Art of the Table by Suzanne Von Drachenfels is here to help.

I have to admit I could not have been more thrilled when I found this little gem.

It has opened my eyes to the rules of formal dining and I cannot wait to use my newfound knowledge at my next gathering.

Not only does the author delve into unfamiliar topics (unfamiliar to me anyway) such as choosing dinnerware, glassware, and proper table manners but she also includes the history behind the rules.

Being a fairly informal person, I was hesitant to delve into this unknown world but now that I’m here I have to say it’s not as intimidating as I had once thought.

Do you think if you knew the “art of the table” you would also be more willing to throw formal events or is informal more your style?