If you’ve ever attended a wedding, gala, or formal dinner, you’ve likely seen large decorative plates sitting beneath the main dinnerware. These are known as charger plates.
So, what are charger plates used for? Charger plates serve both decorative and functional purposes. They elevate table presentation, protect linens and surfaces, and help retain heat during multi-course service. While they look like oversized dinner plates, charger plates are not typically used for direct food contact unless specifically labeled as food-safe.
Also called service plates or under plates, charger plates are commonly used at weddings, banquets, corporate events, and fine dining restaurants. Below, we explain everything you need to know about what charger plates are, how they are used, and why they remain a staple in elegant table settings.
What Are Charger Plates?
Charger plates are large decorative base plates that sit beneath salad plates, soup bowls, and dinner plates during formal meals. Most measure between 12 and 14 inches in diameter, which makes them larger than standard dinner plates.
Unlike everyday plates, charger plates focus primarily on presentation. They create a refined foundation for each place setting while offering practical advantages during service.
However, because many charger plates feature metallic finishes, painted designs, or specialty coatings, manufacturers typically design them for decorative use rather than direct food contact. Always check food-safety labeling before serving food directly on one.
What Are Charger Plates Used For?
Charger plates serve multiple roles in formal dining and event styling. From aesthetics to functionality, their purpose goes beyond simple decoration. Charger plates and paper plates has different purposes to be served on, still you can use paper plates if you want.
1. Elevating Table Presentation
First and foremost, charger plates add structure and sophistication to table settings. They frame dinnerware beautifully and create visual depth.
At weddings and upscale events, charger plates:
- Add elegance and refinement
- Complement event color palettes
- Create contrast beneath neutral dinner plates
- Tie together table décor elements
For example, gold-rimmed chargers elevate a classic black-and-white wedding theme, while woven rattan chargers add warmth to rustic outdoor celebrations.
2. Protecting Tables and Linens
In addition to enhancing design, charger plates protect tablecloths and surfaces.
During service, crumbs, sauces, and minor spills often land on the charger rather than directly on the linen. As a result, hosts can maintain a cleaner and more polished appearance throughout the meal.
They help:
- Catch food debris during multi-course dining
- Prevent heat damage from warm plates
- Reduce visible staining during extended events
Therefore, caterers often include chargers in large-scale events where presentation matters from start to finish.
3. Retaining Heat During Service
Charger plates also contribute to temperature control.
When servers place warm plates or bowls on top of a charger, the base plate provides slight insulation. Consequently, food stays warmer for a longer period—especially helpful during formal dinners with multiple courses.
Although they do not function as heating tools, they do support better temperature retention compared to serving directly on linens.
4. Creating Structure for Multi-Course Meals
Furthermore, charger plates establish structure and flow in formal dining service.
Professional service typically follows this sequence:
- Staff sets the charger before guests arrive.
- Servers place a salad plate or soup bowl on top.
- They remove the first course plate after completion.
- Servers present the main course on a fresh plate atop the charger.
- Staff clears the charger after the entrée.
This layered system ensures a seamless and professional dining experience.
5. Serving as Decorative Bases for Centerpieces
Charger plates are not limited to individual place settings. They are also used creatively in event décor.
For instance, planners often use them to:
- Hold pillar candles
- Support small floral arrangements
- Frame table numbers
- Anchor dessert displays
Because chargers come in numerous finishes and textures, they easily double as decorative accents beyond dining service.
6. Acting as a Display Base at Buffets
At buffet-style events, Plates are placed at each seat to maintain a dressed, finished look even though guests collect food from a buffet line.
They prevent tables from appearing bare and maintain elegance even when dinner plates are temporarily away from the table.
Guests should always be informed that Plates are not their dining plates to avoid confusion.
Also read – Private Label Party Supplies
How to Use Charger Plates Properly?
Since charger plates are associated with formal dining, proper etiquette and placement are important.
Follow these guidelines when using Plates at your event:
1. Prepare Before Guests Arrive
Plates should already be positioned at each place setting before guests are seated.
2. Follow Proper Placement Rules
Place charger plates approximately 1 inch from the edge of the table for balanced alignment. Each setting should be spaced about 2 feet apart to allow adequate elbow room.
3. Avoid Direct Food Contact
Unless labeled as food-safe, do not serve food directly on a charger plate. Always place another plate or bowl on top.
4. Remove After the Main Course
Charger plates are traditionally removed after the main entrée is finished. They should be cleared along with the dinner plate to prepare for dessert service.
How to Set a Table with Charger Plates?
Setting a table with Plates follows a structured format:1. Choose a Coordinated Charger
Select a style that complements your theme, flatware, napkins, and glassware.
2. Center the Charger
Place it in the middle of each setting, directly on the tablecloth or placemat.
It should:
- Sit beneath beverage glasses
- Align between arranged flatware
- Serve as the base for all courses
3. Add Accessories
You may place folded napkins, menu cards, or name cards in the center before service begins.
4. Layer Each Course
Serve every course on a separate plate positioned atop the charger.
5. Maintain Clean Presentation
Wipe chargers clean between courses or replace them if necessary.
Types of Charger Plates
Plates are available in various materials, finishes, and styles. Choosing the right type depends on your event aesthetic and practical needs.
1. Dishwasher-Safe Plates
Ideal for large events where fast cleanup is important.
2. Eco-Friendly Plates
Made from sustainable or biodegradable materials, these are suitable for environmentally conscious events.
3. Decorative or Uniquely Shaped Chargers
Available in round, square, scalloped, or beaded designs for added visual interest.
4. Common Charger Plate Materials
Charger plates come in a wide variety of materials, including:
- Acrylic
- Glass
- Metal
- Faux wood
- Melamine
- Plastic
- Porcelain
- Rattan
- Stainless steel
Each material offers a different aesthetic and durability level. For example, acrylic chargers are lightweight and affordable, while metal chargers offer a more dramatic, upscale look.
Final Thoughts
So, what are they used for?
They enhance table presentation, protect surfaces, help retain heat, and support the structure of multi-course dining service. While primarily decorative, Platesplay a practical role in maintaining elegance and organization during formal meals.
Whether you’re planning a wedding reception, corporate banquet, or upscale dinner party, incorporating Plates into your table design adds depth, refinement, and professionalism to your event setup.
Charger Plate FAQ:
The term “charger” comes from the Old English word chargeour, which referred to a large platter used to carry heavy dishes. Historically, Plates were used to transport whole roasted meats to dining tables.
Over time, their function evolved from serving platters to decorative service plates used in formal dining.
Most Plates are decorative and coated with paints, metallic finishes, or lacquer. These materials are not intended for direct food contact unless specifically labeled as food-safe.
If you plan to serve food directly on a charger, always verify manufacturer guidelines.
Yes. While everyday dining trends have become more casual, Plates remain a popular choice for weddings, banquets, holiday dinners, and upscale catered events.
They are especially common when hosts want to create a layered, luxury table presentation.
Yes. Plates can be placed directly on top of placemats or tablecloths. The key is proper spacing and alignment for a balanced look.
Yes. At buffet-style events, Plates maintain a dressed appearance at each place setting even when guests retrieve their own dinner plates.
However, guests should not eat directly off the charger unless it is specifically labeled as food-safe.
