It is true there a specific shaped glasses for types of wine.  Big, bold red wines should be served in a glass with a larger bowl so the wine can breathe and the bouquet can be appreciated.  White wines are typically served in a narrower glass while champagne might be served in a tall fluted glass.

Riedel glassware is very specific with the shape of the glass claiming the shape allows the wine to spill on to the appropriate taste buds of the tongue to enjoy the wine to its fullest potential.

If you are planning a very formal dinner, you should have the appropriate crystal for each course being served.  However, if you just want to have friends over for a lovely evening of dining, you may want to consider purchasing a good quality all-purpose wine glass.

It’s much better to enjoy the company of friends than not because you don’t have the appropriate crystal.

Bon-appetite!

Fresh flowers are always appropriate for a formal setting, but centerpieces may include a wide variety of items. A favorite piece of china or glass may be used as well as a collection of items such as ornaments or small statues.

One of my favorite centerpieces was created by Peggy Newfield, the founder of the American School of Protocol. She used a variety of wooden safari animals with greenery to create a fabulous table for the students’ formal graduation dinner.

Use your imagination to create a centerpiece that may spark dinner conversations. However, whatever you do, never use artificial plastic flowers.