If you’ve ever attended a formal dinner, wedding, or upscale event, chances are you’ve seen charger plates on the table. These decorative plates sit beneath dinnerware and add a touch of structure, elegance, and style to place settings.
In this blog, we’ll explain what charger plates are, why they matter, how to use them, and what materials are available.
Origin and History
Charger plates originated around 1275-1325 and were derived from an old English and Scottish text,” charge our”, which is referred to as "any means for carrying heavy items".
It has been in use since the 19th century, and it also signifies a larger platter or a large shallow dish for liquids, such as soup bowls and salad plates. They are commonly bigger than most common dinner plates.
Why Is It Called a Charger Plate?
The term “charger” comes from the Old English word chargeour, meaning a large platter. Historically, charger plates were used during formal meals to hold multiple courses. Today, they serve more of a decorative purpose but still provide structure and support to the table setup.
Understanding why it is called a charger plate adds to the appreciation of its traditional role in dining.
What Is a Charger Plate Used For?
A charger plate, also known as a service plate, is placed underneath the dinner plate and is not meant for direct food contact. Instead, it serves as a base for soup bowls, salad plates, and entrée dishes. The charger plate’s purpose is both functional and decorative:
- It protects the table or tablecloth from spills
- It retains heat from hot dishes
- It enhances the appearance of the place setting
- It helps define each guest’s dining space
Using a charger plate elevates the overall table presentation, even for simple meals.
How to Choose Charger Plates?
First, make sure to choose a charger plate that will go well with the theme of the event or match your overall concept. This will give you the perfect match to help you achieve your look and add contrast between the elements of your dinner table decor.
Choose a specific color that will coordinate with the color of the table and dinner plates. For example, if you use white dinner plates and tablecloths, gold charger plates or charger plates with intricate decor will complement them beautifully.
Check the color wheel for better color coordination, so you won't have a hard time choosing the best color palette for the event.
How to Use Charger Plates Properly
When learning how to use charger plates, it’s important to know that they are typically placed before guests are seated and remain until the entrée is served. Once the main course arrives, the chargers are often removed, though some hosts leave them in place throughout the meal.
Here are basic placement tips:
- Position the charger directly under the dinnerware.
- Align it about one inch from the table’s edge.
- Match your charger plate with the theme or colors of your table decor.
- Never serve food directly on a charger plate unless it’s food-safe.
Chargers pair well with other decorative elements like napkin rings, layered linens, or themed centerpieces.
Types of Charger Plate Materials
At CV Linens™, charger plates come in a wide range of styles, finishes, and materials to fit any event. Here are a few of the most popular:
Acrylic: Lightweight, durable, and available in various textures and colors. Great for weddings and corporate events.
Glass: Offers a more upscale feel with a glossy finish. Best for formal receptions or modern décor
Plastic: Ideal for casual or budget-friendly events. Disposable options are available for convenience.
Metal: Adds shine and elegance, often used for high-end banquets or formal dinners.
Wood or Bamboo: Fits well with rustic or eco-friendly themes.
You can explore all these options in our charger plates collection, which includes styles that suit every event aesthetic.
Differentiating Chargers from Placemats
Charger plates and placemats serve a similar purpose: to protect table linens while also adding aesthetic appeal. Both protect against spills and stains while enhancing the aesthetics of your table setup.
However, the main difference is in their usage. Charger plates are normally removed after dinner service and used as an elegant base for the dinner plate during the meal. Placemats, on the other hand, stay in place throughout the meal, supporting the dinner plate, utensils, and glassware.
Charger plates are often larger than dinner plates and are made of a variety of materials such as glass, metal, or plastic, with designs and colors to choose from. Meanwhile, table placemats are made from materials such as cotton, vinyl, or bamboo, and are available in a variety of textures and colors to fit any event.
Shop our fringed-edge woven placemats to add beauty and sophistication to your next occasion.
Matching Charger Plates
Does every charger plate need to match? Yes, as this will create a consistent style. Consistency is key in design. Ensuring that the table decor is presentable for a luxe vibe.
Go even further and find charger plates that will match the decor of your tablecloth linens or other elements of your wedding decor.
Charger Plate Etiquette
Charger plates are part of proper table etiquette, especially in formal settings. Here are a few simple rules to follow:
- Chargers are set before guests arrive and removed before the main entrée is served (unless using them for presentation only).
- Don’t serve food directly on a charger unless specified by the manufacturer.
- Wipe chargers clean between courses if reusing.
- Match the charger size to your dinnerware. Most are 13-14 inches in diameter.
Using chargers properly shows attention to detail and respect for the dining experience.
How to Prepare Your Charger Plates?
For dining etiquette regarding the use of charger plates, they should be set when the guests arrive at the table. Most hosts leave the plate out throughout the main course and then remove it before serving the dessert as part of the design and decor.
To guide you, here are the steps to follow in preparing to set your charger plates:
- Set your tablecloth. evenly place your tablecloth and mats if you plan to use them.
- Pick a design for your charger plates. Depending on the host's choice of design, style, and color, choose the right charger plates based on your theme.
- Set the charger plates. Place the charger plate for each chair at the table. Place them over the placemats. Allow at least 2 feet between charger plates and 1 inch away from the table's edge or corner.
- Set your dinner plate. Place the dinner plate in the center of each charger plate. You can also place a bowl over the dinner plate if you are also serving salad or soup; make sure to center it as well. For decor, use table linen napkins, put them in a napkin ring to add an extra look to the presentation, and don't forget to place them on each plate. After that, set out all the needed serving dishes and utensils.
- Serve the food. After serving the food, wait for them to finish eating before you remove the charger plates when serving the dessert. When taking the charger plate, the dinner plate should be still on it.
Charger plates are more than just decorative pieces—they serve a practical purpose and add a polished look to your table setting. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a dinner party, or a formal event, chargers bring depth and detail to your tablescape.
Now that you know the charger plate's purpose, how to use charger plates, and why it is called a charger plate, you’re ready to style your next event with confidence.
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