Whether an abundant event with white linens and the best silverware, or a more mundane meal made special with a few attentive touches, a set table symbolises many things to the people that gather around it. A table setting symbolises preparation.
Whether a solitary activity or one shared with helpers, setting the table sets the overarching tone. It is much akin to setting the stage for a play – priming the mood and the space for the event to come. Besides, as the popular adage says, we eat with our eyes first. A set table readies us for the feast to come before we have seen a glimpse of the actual fare.
A table setting symbolises community. It speaks to everyone in welcome tones, letting each participant know that they are included. A set table is the warm embrace of the gathered company, enveloping and holding them close. Whether a time-honoured tradition or a first attempt at something new, a set table is a warm invitation for family and friends to convene. We come together to break bread and to build connections.
A table setting symbolises sharing. Gathered around it, we share not only our time, space and provisions, but also life events, thoughts, hopes, dreams, fears. We laugh light-heartedly and talk deeply. We ask someone to pass the salt to break the ice, we offer a clean napkin to dab away the spilled wine or the spilled tears, we request a bite to experience something new, we volunteer to bring something so someone else doesn’t have to get up. A set table encourages us to contribute just by taking part.
“A TABLE SETTING IS THE SIMPLE SYMBOL OF LOVE IN ACTION. AFTER ALL, THE REASON WHY WE PREPARE THE TABLE AND GATHER AROUND IT IS TO BE WITH THOSE WE CARE ABOUT.”
A table setting symbolises hospitality. People appreciate effort, the thought of someone having thought of them. A set table shows us that we are important and cared about. And afterwards, when we have enjoyed the food and the company to the fullest, we can return all of these sentiments in kind by helping to tidy up and clear the table for the next
wonderful get-together.
Most importantly, a table setting is the simple symbol of love in action. After all, the reason why we prepare the table and gather around it is to be with those we care about. Settling into that warm embrace of inclusivity, we are reminded to take our time to be present in each other’s lives.
Text Jenna Suomela
Styling Susanna Vento
Photo Vilma Hetemaj
