THE ART OF TABLE SETTING AND FLOWER ARRANGEMENT

The demand for a book of this kind has grown out of two main channels:- the need of young marrieds to learn the know-how of proper etiquette of entertaining, from table setting on -- and the growing interest in competitive exhibitions at flower shows, and so on. Courses are popular and in this field, Mrs. Hirsch has an established name. This book is the proof of her sound judgment, good taste and appreciation of changing modes of living, servantless households, and variation in budgets. She stresses the importance- no matter what the budget- of good taste in selection of dinnerware, flatware, crystal, linens, both for entertaining and everyday use. Design, color and texture, fashions- permanent and ephemeral, and the relation of each facet to the style of your own living, and the background setting. Simplicity and restraint are the watchwords- and avoidance of the commonplace. She then goes on to the basic rules for setting the table, bearing in mind the degrees of formality, the types of meals and service. The gourmet touch shows in the co-ordination of food and table appointments, of menus and settings. A final section correlates the decorative factors and discusses the challenge of exhibiting.