Product Guide: How to Choose Flatware for Your Event

By: Marquee Event Rentals

Forks, knives, and spoons are more than just eating utensils. Silverware, also known as flatware, informs guests how many courses will be served and what the type of food to expect (soup, meat, seafood, etc.). Plus, with so many materials and designs to choose from, flatware can complement your event’s design and decor.

If your event includes a multi-course meal, your table settings may require a bit of real estate. Not only is it essential flatware complements your theme, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure you’ll have room for other table elements. Our event experts share their top tips for setting a proper table.

How to Choose Rental Flatware

Choosing the right utensils depends on a few important factors:

Formal, Semi-Formal or Casual - At a casual event, you only need two forks, one knife, and one or two spoons; however, at formal events, guests may need up to four different knives. Check out this guide to the required utensils for different event types and styles, or just get in touch with one of our event consultants.

The Menu - If you’re serving fish, shellfish, soup, or meat, provide guests with appropriate utensils. If your event is formal or semi-formal and includes dessert, guests should have a dessert fork or spoon. For brunch events, provide guests with two spoons, one fork, and a butter knife.

Serving Utensils - If your event includes a buffet, a grazing table, or family-style dining, you should also rent serving utensils.

Event Style and Theme - At a bohemian or rustic wedding, you can mix and match metals; but at a formal event, such as a fundraising dinner, your choices should be more traditional. If your event is beach-themed, silverware with a scalloped, shell-like pattern can support your motif.

Popular Flatware Rentals for Events

When you rent from Marquee, every course is covered. Here are a few examples of our most popular flatware rentals:

Gold Flatware - weddings, garden parties, tables with bold colors
Rose gold and traditional gold flatware add glamour to your table. Pair with gold-rimmed china and glassware for maximum opulence. Set a dramatic table by combining gold flatware with black, or jeweled-toned linens.

Silver Flatware - formal events, tea parties, brunch
If your event emphasizes elegance over a more dramatic theme, silver flatware is the ideal choice. Create a classic, old-world table setting with silver utensils and delicate china.

Stainless Steel Flatware - corporate meetings, presentations
Minimalist, informal stainless steel complements any modern table setting. Choose from polished stainless steel or brushed stainless steel flatware

Specialty Flatware - BBQs, theme events
Looking to rent specialty flatware? We have a massive inventory of specialty utensils and flatware in atypical colors and styles such as black and oyster shell.

Renting silverware is the sustainable alternative to disposables. We offer flatware rentals in a variety of price points, so you can find the perfect match for your event and keep it eco-friendly. Contact a Marquee Event Specialist in Chicago, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Austin, Dallas, or San Antonio for a complimentary consultation.

We can also help you choose rental tables, linens, and more to complement your flatware, table accessories, and flower arrangements. Our friendly event specialists can also set up a mock table so you can see how all your elements work together.