Should You Use Charger Plates for Your Next Party?
February 27, 2020
By: Marquee Event Rentals
A charger plate, also known as a service plate, is the large, decorative base placed beneath dishes used for dining. They can play a stylish and functional role at your table.
Before the meal begins, charger plates can display a name card or menu. During the meal, a charger plate catches drips and crumbs before they soil the tablecloth - or the laps of guests!
Read on for our event experts’ top tips for using charger plates in both formal and informal settings. We’ll also share some creative ways to use charger plates with centerpieces to help you design an amazing event.
Top 3 Reasons to Use Charger Plates for Your Event
#1 Add elegance and sophistication - charger plates can add an additional touch of elegance to a formal dining experience with multiple courses. Each course can be served in its own bowl or on a separate plate and placed on top of the charger.
#2 Support a theme - glass, wood or rattan chargers work well for beach-themed or outdoor events. China is better for events with a more traditional aesthetic. Have some fun with your settings by mixing and matching your china and charger plates.
#3 Increase the “wow” factor - choose charger plates with bold colors, shimmering metallics, and interesting shapes - or a combination of all three!
How to Use Charger Plates
Charger plates are an essential element of fine dining, but should not be used to serve food. At formal dining events, charger plates play a supporting role - catching spills and helping hot dishes, such as soup, retain heat.
When choosing charger plates, consider both your theme and number of guests. Charger plates are available in many styles and sizes from 11 to 13 inches.
For corporate events or conferences, we like charger plates with gold leaf, silver band, or metallic beads. If you want something a little more eye-catching, choose a solid metallic plate, a unique shape, or a charger plate in a bold color such as red.
Charger Plate Centerpiece Ideas
Add sparkle or a pop of color to your table by using charger plates to support your centerpiece. Choose a color that complements your floral arrangements, a metallic to reflect the light of your candles, or a beaded charger plate to add texture. Place a charger beneath your cake stand to call attention to a fabulous dessert.
Event Dinnerware Rentals from Marquee
Our helpful event experts can set up a sample table setting so you can see how different charger plates work with your china, flatware, linens, and tabletop accessories. Simply contact us for a complimentary consultation with an event rental specialist in Chicago, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Austin, Dallas, or San Antonio.
Let us know what questions you have and if you’re looking for event design and decor ideas. Our goal is to bring your event vision to life.