Ranging from basic to formal with every level in between, table settings give your guests what they need to eat in a way that invites them to do so. While every family does it differently, here are some go-to guidelines you can use inspired by traditional rules of etiquette.

The Basics: There are a thousand ways to set a table (at least!), but one unifying factor is only setting the table with items your guests will use. If they don't need a wine glass or salad fork, you don't need to save a place for it! Here are some popular utensils and common places to find them.

• Dinner plate: front and center
• Salad plate: on top of the dinner plate
• Dinner fork: to the left of the plates
• Salad fork: to the left of the dinner fork
• Dinner knife: to the right of the plates
• Soup spoon: to the right of the knife
• Bread plate: above the forks
• Butter knife: on top of the bread plate, tilted left
• Dessert fork: above the plates, pointed right
• Dessert spoon: above the dessert fork, pointed left 
• Water glass: above the dinner knife
• Wine glass: to the right of the water glass

The Accents: The same basic tablescape can work for any get-together with a few seasonal swaps! Customize your setting to suit any situation by playing with the colors and textures of your dishes and linens, plus a few special touches that will make your party pop.

• Guests for Thanksgiving? Opt for rustic textures and warm harvest colors like gold, wood and deep autumn hues. You can use sunflowers, fresh oranges and mini pumpkins to highlightthe holiday.
• Christmas company? Make things merry with reds, greens and whites in your table setting, napkins and florals. Try adding ornaments, pinecones or pomegranates to your arrangements.
• How about Hanukkah? From the linens and tableware to the fabulous florals, select beautiful blues, lily whites and silvery accents. Gold coins and candles can also set the stage for your celebration.

The Finishing Touches: Add personality and festive flair to your table with some of these go-to guidelines for ease of eating, plus a little extra zhuzh.

• Lean into linens with a tablecloth, runner, placemats and napkins.
• Give each napkin a fun fold or nestle it in a napkin ring.
• Mix and match chargers (beneath the plates), dishes and linens for extra flair.
• Accessorize each setting with a personalized place card.
• Have salt, pepper and butter within easy reach of every guest.
• Add a festive floral arrangement or several smaller ones.

No matter how you choose to set and style your table, just remember—the point of entertaining is to have fun!