Eating alone can be quite a task for many. But it does not necessarily mean you’re lonely. A good alone time, with nothing but good food and some music for company is after all one of the most underrated exercises in self-care. You’re not necessarily avoiding company (well that too!), but most importantly you’re giving yourself the chance to experience the joy of your own company and savour the cuisine and the ambience without feeling obligated to start a conversation with the person you’re sharing the meal with.
Well, the simple pleasures of solo dining and the benefits it offers is certainly a topic for discussion. But let’s reserve it for another day. What if you could make your solo meals a me-time ritual that will let you be fully present in the moment without having to whip out your phone to surf or talk? Well, with the right ambience (read table setting) you can make your solo meal a part of your self-care routine, as it offers the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind.
But, if you had to set a table just for you, what can you do to turn it into an unforgettable dining experience? Just keep the ambiance, presentation, and tableware in mind and you should be in for an exhilarating culinary journey. When it comes to setting the table, the right tableware can make a lot of difference to the meal and your mood. Here are some simple tips to choose the right tableware and to create an ambience that’s personalised for just for you.
Choosing the right type of tableware
While the classic white porcelain or bone China crockery set is still considered the best-suited for formal occasions and special celebrations, the rustic, sustainable eclectic stoneware sets are gradually making its way into our collective consciousness. They’re certainly more inviting and exude warmer vibes, and they’re quite versatile that it’s not just great for solo meals but also for cosy family dinners. Modern, artisanal ceramic dinner sets are perfect for creating a rustic and casual ambiance and would certainly be the right choice for your relaxing solo meal.
Setting the mood with colour
As is the case with anything, colours play a major role in influencing our moods. White and cream make for some elegant tableware and are great for creating a soothing and sometimes even contrasting backdrop for your meals, especially if you’re cooking something that’s bright and colourful. Choose bright coloured ceramic tableware to liven up your space. For an earthy balance go with deep greens or blues. Nature hues are calming and excellent for creating a sense of serenity and healing — the perfect colours to get you started on a relaxing, rejuvenating meal.
Experiment with shapes and sizes
For a contemporary appeal you could go with square shaped plates or even go ultra-modern with quirky shaped serving plates and bowls and cutlery. But if you’re looking to keep it simple, elegant and classic then you cannot go wrong with the conventional round stoneware plates. To make it visually appealing go for matching bowls, cups and tumblers. If you’re just setting the table for a nice refreshing tea-time to sit and catch up on some reading, then pick a ceramic cup and matching tray to keep your sandwiches and don’t forget the vintage stoneware teapot. Not a tea person? Well, pick ceramic tumblers or the quintessential south Indian Dabara set to savour your piping hot filter coffee.
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Don’t forget the ambience
Now that you’ve got your tableware sorted for your relaxing me-time meal, try to personalise your table to enhance your dining experience. To create a more cohesive table setting choose the same base material for the other table accessories. Add an elegant stoneware vase to carry your favourite blossoms. To get you into zen state light some dhoop or incense sticks. Don’t forget to get a stoneware dhoop holder that complements your tableware and cutlery. And get contrasting tablemats, some napkin rings to give your meal a fine-dining spin.
Remember that when it comes to setting your table for a meal, a cohesive and visually appealing presentation is essential. And if you’re trying to enjoy some much-needed me-time, put in the effort and focus on placement to really have an immersive dining experience. Don’t overcrowd your table with too many things as more clutter will not help you relax.
So anytime you’re looking to transform your alone time into something more memorable, just light a scented candle, set the table with eclectic artisanal ceramic plates and bowls and just let your thoughts flow and the world disappear as you savour every bite of your meal and sip some freshly brewed coffee.
Looking for a signature stoneware dinner set? Shop here.