Setting a stylish and attractive dinner table is an art that is certain to make dinner guests feel that extra bit special. If you’re not artistically inclined the trick is to keep it simple.

Choose dinnerware that is durable and dishwasher proof. My personal preference is for all white crockery and stainless steel cutlery in a contemporary design. But, whatever your taste, you want your dinnerware to last for more than just one meal so be certain to check that the crockery is chip and scratch resistant.

Its important to find out if you will be able to get replacement items for your chosen dinner service or cutlery set. You can be sure that sooner or later a few of your plates and bowls will get chipped and cracked. It’s much better to be able to replace any damaged items without having to go to the expense of replacing the whole dinner service.

The same is true for cutlery. My husband will often use a table knife as a quick and handy screwdriver, although I have asked him not to. I’ve had to replace several knives and a few spoons that he has managed to damage in this way. So it’s good to be able to buy replacements.

Your choice of crockery and cutlery are important but there is much more involved in setting an attractive dining table. Glassware is also important and again I recommend simple, but stylish. Make certain that your glassware is dishwasher safe and ensure that you have more than enough glasses. At the very least I would recommend that you have a set of six general purpose tumblers, six red wine glasses, six white wine glasses and maybe some glasses for spirits if they are your tipple. Alternatively, if you enjoy a glass or three of champagne, get yourself a nice set of champagne flutes.

Choose crisp cotton or linen table napkins rather than throwaway paper ones. A few tasteful placemats will work for day to day use but for a dinner party you will probably want a nice table cloth and some tasteful napkins.

Select an attractive centrepiece, maybe a piece of crystal glass or dried flower arrangement, and you’ll be ready to serve the food and wine. Any foodcuisinesuchIndian food orChinesefood will work perfectly with this and also give you an opportunity to try some different red wines. But you are already onto a winner with your stylish dining table.