7. But remember some rules are not made to be broken.

It's best to express your party flair in ways that will amaze your friends, not confuse them. In other words, no reworking of the "how to set the table" formula. It has served us well for years, and yet, some guests might still have a hard time remembering that when it comes to flatware, you work from the outside in. Don't make it any more difficult with attempts to get creative. However, if a guest does commit a dining faux pas -- say, mistaking the finger bowl for a cup of consommé -- you'll earn said guest's eternal gratitude if you pick yours up, take a sip, and say, "Cheers to an unforgettable evening."

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