What Is The Point Of Charger Plates?

A charger plate, also known as an underplate or service plate, is a decorative plate that is placed under the dinner plate prior to serving a meal. It serves both aesthetic and functional purposes.^[1]

Charger plates originated in the Middle Ages in Europe, when wealthy households would use them to serve guests elaborate meals with multiple courses. The plates were originally called “trenchers” and were used to serve food before being eaten off of or passed around the table. Over time, they evolved into decorative accent plates that enhanced the table setting.

Today, charger plates are commonly used in formal table settings to add a decorative touch and coordinate with the dishes and other tableware. They also serve practical purposes like protecting the table underneath from scratches, providing a stable base for dinner plates, and allowing used plates to be removed without disturbing the place setting underneath.

Overall, charger plates help create an elegant, polished look for special occasions and holidays while serving useful functions on the table. They remain a dining tradition with both aesthetic and practical appeal.

^{[1] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/charger-plates-101-your-ultimate-guide-unveiling-etiquette-hundt}

Types of Charger Plates

Charger plates come in a variety of materials, sizes, shapes and designs. Some of the most common materials used are:

• Porcelain – Porcelain chargers are durable, chip-resistant and elegant. They have a smooth glossy finish.
• Ceramic – Ceramic charger plates have an earthy, organic look. They are also durable but can chip if dropped.
• Glass – Glass charger plates have a sleek, modern aesthetic. However they are prone to breaking if dropped.
• Metal – Metal chargers like gold, silver or copper have a luxurious appearance. But they can scratch, dent or tarnish over time.

In addition to different materials, charger plates come in a range of sizes. Standard sizes are 12, 13, and 14 inches in diameter. Giant charger plates up to 20 inches wide can make a dramatic statement. Chargers also come in various shapes like round, square, rectangular and oval.

The designs and patterns on chargers are endless. Solid colors, metallics, glass beading, lace patterns, floral motifs and more can be found. This allows them to be coordinated with any tableware and decor. Custom monogram or logo chargers can also be created.

Proper Table Setting Usage

Charger plates belong underneath the dinner plate in a formal table setting. They provide an elegant base layer to dress up the table and coordinate with the dishes being used. Chargers should be set approximately 1 inch from the edge of the table.

Charger plates are recommended for formal dinners and parties where a stylish tablescape is desired. They help create an upscale aesthetic. However, chargers may be considered too formal and unnecessary for more casual meals. While they can add visual appeal to any table, chargers are not a required element in basic table settings.

According to https://www.thespruce.com/charger-plates-1216208, chargers should be removed before the meal is served. The dinner plate takes the charger’s place once food is brought out. Chargers mainly serve as decorative place cards indicating where guests should sit.

Decorative Purposes

Charger plates can add decoration and style to table settings in various ways. Many charger plates feature intricate designs, patterns, or coloring to elevate the visual appeal of a table. Holiday charger plates provide a festive touch for seasons like Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, and more. Various holiday symbols and imagery like poinsettias, snowflakes, bunnies, and eggs are popular. Themed or custom designed chargers can also coordinate with wedding motifs, formal events, parties, and other occasions. Using chargers with complementary colors, artistic patterns, or meaningful designs transforms an ordinary table into a visually striking display.

Charger plates are available in metallic finishes like gold and silver that can lend an elegant, sophisticated look. Chargers with motifs meaningful to the host can showcase their personality and interests at a dinner party or meal. The decorative detailing on charger plates makes them ideal for layering visual interest beneath dinner plates. Their ornamental style elevates the overall aesthetic of a table setting. Charger plates allow for easy decoration without requiring additional trinkets, centerpieces, or embellishments.

Protecting Table Surfaces

One of the main purposes of charger plates is to protect the table surface underneath from damage that can be caused by regular dinner plates. According to this source, charger plates can prevent messes from staining or damaging delicate tablecloths. The charger plate sits between the dinner plate and the table, acting as a protective barrier.

Charger plates are especially useful for protecting wood table surfaces. Hot dinner plates straight from the oven can cause white rings or discoloration on wooden tables. But the charger plate absorbs this heat first, preventing damage to the table itself. Charger plates also prevent scratches, smudges, and water marks from forming directly on the table surface.

So in addition to their decorative purpose, charger plates have a practical protective function. They safeguard fine wood tables or tablecloths during a dinner party or holiday meal when many hot dishes will be served over the course of the evening.

Charger Plate Alternatives

For those looking to save on costs or trying to reduce waste, there are a few creative alternatives to traditional charger plates:

Table runners and placemats can provide decoration and protect table surfaces while eliminating the need for separate charger plates. Long rectangular table runners made of linen, burlap, lace or other fabrics can be layered over tables before place settings. Similarly, decorative paper, woven or fabric placemats can be used in lieu of charger plates [1].

Going without charger plates altogether and using a bare tabletop is also an option. The table itself can provide a clean backdrop for place settings. Just ensure table surfaces are spotless. For added interest, decorative touches like wreaths, garlands or flower arrangements down table centers can help draw the eye [1].

Maintenance and Care

Proper care and maintenance of charger plates will extend their lifespan. When cleaning charger plates, it’s best to use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the plate over time. According to How To Wash Charger Plates, charger plates should be hand washed to preserve their condition.

For storage, charger plates should be kept in a dry place to prevent warping. Stacking the plates can cause scratches, so lining them vertically in a plate stand or individually in protective sleeves is ideal. Charger plates are decorative items, so take care to handle them gently and keep them away from harsh chemicals or abrasives that could cause damage.

Cost Considerations

The cost of charger plates can vary greatly depending on the material, size, and quality. Here are some price ranges to expect:

• Plastic or melamine: $2 – $15 per plate
• Porcelain: $15 – $50 per plate
• Metal: $20 – $100 per plate
• Glass: $30 – $150 per plate

Some factors that affect the price of charger plates include:

• Material: Plastic is cheapest while metal and glass are most expensive.
• Size: Larger plates over 13 inches cost more.
• Design Details: Intricate patterns, hand-painting, or ornate edges increase cost.
• Brand Name:Designer brands command higher prices.
• Quantity: Buying in bulk lowers per unit price.
• Place of Origin: Those made domestically or imported cost more.

Sourcing Charger Plates

There are several options for sourcing charger plates depending on your budget and needs:

Retail stores like Bed Bath & Beyond, Crate & Barrel, and Pottery Barn sell charger plates in a variety of styles. While the selection may be limited, you can see and feel the quality of the plates in person. Retail stores are best for purchasing a smaller number of charger plates.

For more variety, online retailers like Amazon, Wayfair, and Etsy offer charger plates in different shapes, sizes, colors and materials. Online shopping allows you to compare prices and reviews easily. Purchasing charger plates online is recommended if you need many plates for an event or wedding.

Estate sales, thrift stores, and flea markets are great places to find inexpensive, vintage charger plates. These secondhand places can have unique finds, but may require more time and effort to source enough matching plates for your needs.

Conclusion

In summary, charger plates serve multiple purposes on a properly set table. While decorative in nature, they also protect table surfaces and provide contrast to dinner plates. Chargers are most appropriate for formal table settings and special occasions where an elegant presentation is desired. For less formal gatherings, chargers may not be necessary, though they can still add a nice decorative touch. With proper care, chargers can be used repeatedly to elevate your tablescape for years to come.

When considering if chargers are appropriate, think about the formality of the occasion and the overall table decor. Formal dinners, parties, weddings, and holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas are all situations where chargers shine. Their decorative nature sets the tone for an elegant meal. For casual family dinners, picnics, or backyard barbecues, chargers may feel excessive or get in the way. While not required, they can still add a little decorative flair to everyday meals.

Charger plates are versatile decorative tableware that can take a table setting to the next level. When used properly for formal place settings, they not only beautify the table with color and texture, but also protect and frame dinner plates. With the right occasion and table decor, chargers can add substantial elegance and sophistication.