The new book of table settings : creative ideas for the way we gather today

A contemporary and creative guide to setting a dinner table - for all occasions and all seasons, indoors and out.

This is about decorating a table geared towards today's unbuttoned lifestyles, when a take-away in front of the fireplace counts as having friends over for dinner, and a dip-in buffet is far more common than a five course meal.

We do also deal with tradition - a 'basics' section reviews the standard tableware components & provides some light-hearted refreshers on traditional put-the-salad-fork-here etiquette.

More importantly, it shows how to assemble an all-purpose collection of tableware that will provide the foundation for almost any setting.

Clever and creative: dozens of simply achievable ideas for making tables inviting places to gather.

Tips and sidebars on everything from hosting a wine-tasting to throwing a house-renovation party (just put the beer in the wheelbarrow).

Imaginative ideas for tight budgets and limited tableware: this is an uncomplicated book for real people.