Cutlery and Crockery Hire: Matching Your Place Settings

Expo Hire understands that while cutlery and crockery hire might not be the most glamorous aspect of event planning, it is absolutely fundamental. No successful banquet, wedding reception, or corporate function can operate without them.

Determining the correct cutlery and crockery combinations for your event doesn't need to be a complex task. This guide will help you understand how to match plate and cutlery hire to create the perfect place setting for your occasion.

Calculating Your Place Setting Requirements

The essential first step in ordering any crockery and cutlery is accurately calculating the total number of place settings you will need. The calculation is straightforward, based on your menu and guest count.

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• One table knife and one table fork per guest for the main course.
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• One dessert knife or one dessert fork per guest if you are serving a plated dessert.
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• One starter fork or one starter knife per guest if you are serving a plated starter.
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• One soup spoon per guest if soup is included on your menu.
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• One teaspoon per guest if you plan to serve tea or coffee after the meal.
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• One side plate per guest if you are serving bread rolls with the meal.
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As a general rule, we recommend hiring 10 percent more items than your confirmed guest count. This buffer accounts for accidental breakages, items that may be misplaced during service, and any last-minute guest arrivals. For larger events exceeding 100 guests, this additional percentage also helps absorb items that might inadvertently end up in waste bins during the clear-up process.

Understanding Expo Hire's Cutlery Hire Ranges

The primary decision when ordering cutlery hire is selecting the appropriate range. Expo Hire offers four distinct cutlery ranges, each comprising seven essential components: table knives, table forks, dessert knives, dessert forks, dessert spoons, soup spoons, and teaspoons.

The main differences between these ranges are aesthetic. Our Bead cutlery features a subtle decorative bead outline along the handles. The Kings range incorporates a classic honeysuckle motif, while the Harley range is designed in an elegant Art Deco style, deliberately free from any decorative motif.

The Virtue range stands apart. While visually similar to the other ranges, Virtue cutlery is manufactured from a higher-grade stainless steel (18/10). This superior material results in a sharper, more refined finish, which is particularly noticeable at formal events where table presentation is paramount.

Cutlery Materials: The Significance of Steel Grade

All cutlery ranges available from Expo Hire are constructed from stainless steel. The key differentiator lies in the specific grade of stainless steel used in their manufacture.

Standard stainless steel cutlery is typically made from 18/0 steel. This composition contains 18 percent chromium and no nickel. This grade offers excellent durability, is fully dishwasher-safe, and exhibits good resistance to rust. It is a practical and reliable choice for outdoor events, high-volume functions where sheer quantity is a priority over a highly polished finish, or for events where the cutlery will experience heavy daily use.

Our premium Virtue range is crafted from 18/10 steel. This composition includes 18 percent chromium and 10 percent nickel. The presence of nickel imparts a brighter, more reflective sheen to the steel. It also significantly enhances the cutlery's resistance to corrosion and staining. This is the standard grade used in professional catering kitchens and fine dining establishments, and the improvement in visual appeal is readily apparent upon close inspection.

Matching Plates and Cutlery for Your Event

The key to achieving a cohesive and elegant table setting lies in the thoughtful matching of your chosen crockery and cutlery. Consider the overall style and formality of your event when making your selections.

For a contemporary and minimalist event, pairing simple, clean-lined white crockery with the understated elegance of the Harley or Virtue cutlery ranges creates a sophisticated look. The sharp lines of the Harley cutlery complement modern plate designs, while the superior finish of the Virtue range adds a touch of luxury.

If your event leans towards a more traditional or classic theme, the Kings cutlery, with its subtle honeysuckle motif, pairs beautifully with patterned or cream-coloured china. This combination evokes a sense of timeless elegance and is ideal for weddings or formal dinners.

The Bead cutlery offers a versatile option. Its decorative edge provides a touch of detail without being overpowering, making it suitable for a wide range of events, from corporate lunches to family celebrations. It can be paired with most crockery styles, offering a balance between classic and contemporary.

When selecting plates, consider the size and shape that best suits your menu. Standard dinner plates typically measure between 25cm and 28cm in diameter. Side plates for bread rolls are usually around 15cm to 17cm. Understanding these standard dimensions helps ensure your cutlery proportions look correct on the table.

Remember to consider the weight and feel of the cutlery. Higher-grade stainless steel, like that used in the Virtue range, often has a more substantial and pleasing weight in the hand, contributing to a more premium dining experience.

By carefully considering your menu, the formality of your event, and the aesthetic you wish to achieve, you can confidently select the perfect combination of cutlery and crockery hire to create memorable place settings for all your guests.