Napkin No-No
November 7, 2010
There’s one item on your placesetting that can transport all of your guests immediately back to the 80s: your napkins. Check out these major napkin no-no’s and then run (don’t walk) to your caterer or venue to specify that you do not want anything even remotely resembling a bishop’s hat fold, a fan fold or your napkins stuck into a glass.
You can and should request that they note this on your Banquet Event Order and don’t be shy about sending them a photo of the type of fold you require. A simple, classic choice is the pocket fold or you can go for the (reasonably) idiot-proof long fold shown at bottom left below.
Photos courtesy of Jennifer Davis Photography, Elizabeth Anne Designs, and Christian Oth.
Ha! I love this post!! We chose the long fold. I have to say.. the napkins in the glass is one of my biggest pet peaves.. what a difference this makes!!
That’s a great post! I hadn’t thought about those silly, stuffy fan-folded napkins until I saw this. I re-posted on my blog.
Take care,
Margot
Sarah- you are a genius- couldn’t agree more about those damn ugly napkins!!!!!!!
I agree. The fan fold is really 80s. Something simple like the pocket fold is clean and elegant.
I love this piece that you did on napkins. Even though most people feel that this is one element that is not something that needs to be dealt with it is a small element that can and does anchor your table decor. I believe in the simplicity of the napkin fold and I am glad to see that someone agrees.
You learn something new everyday. To be honest, I hadn’t really been on top of the latest nap-kin trends and strategies. Now that this has been brought to light, I will definitely pay attention to this detail and assure I comply with 21 first century nap-kin rules! Thank you for the post.
Chris
Wow! I never gave attention to those napkins. Thanks for bringing that up. My wedding is next month and I would select the napkins with extra care now. Btw I hate that flower-type napkins that are tucked into the wine glasses (which you showed in the photo above). Good post.