If you’re planning to entertain guests for dinner, the question of table setting has likely already crossed your mind. Proper table setting might seem superfluous, but there are practical benefits to including more than just a dinner plate and salad plate.
If you’re interested in learning more about both casual and formal table setting for dinner, here are some guidelines to consider:
Dinner parties typically have a more formal vibe than breakfasts and lunches. Sometimes, however, you might wish to set up a dinner table. Just be sure the set table is informal to maintain the casual atmosphere.
One way to accomplish this is to allow your guests to serve themselves. You can place the food at the front of the table, or at the center for everyone to eat around. Don’t worry about detailed silverware placement for a casual party - instead, make sure everybody has exactly what they need to enjoy the food.
The prospect of a formal dinner table setting might seem intimidating, especially for those without an expansive collection of tableware or utensils. However, even with a small stash of necessities, you can create an elegant ambiance.
If you plan a dinner with multiple courses, have a plate or utensil available for each one. For example, every place setting should have a soup spoon, salad fork, dinner fork and dessert spoon. Have two glasses at every table setting, one for water and the other for a festive beverage of choice.
If you’re hovering between formal and informal, you might find that a buffet style dinner party can be the best of both worlds. Buffet tables allow your guests to serve themselves at their own leisure, while also giving you the opportunity to show a formal, stylish flair.
The classic buffet layout typically consists of entrées and side dishes surrounding a decorative centerpiece. Drinks should be at one end of the table, or in a completely dedicated space. Make sure to include all the trimmings for formal table settings like bread and butter plates, soup spoons and sharp cutlery for meat.
Are you ready to plan your next dinner party? Keep these tips in mind when entertaining to strike the perfect balance for your evening.
Hi! We are David and Evelyn - The Hickox Team!
With a shared passion for helping people find where you truly belong—whether it’s a dream home or a strategic commercial space—we’ve combined our experience, heart, and hustle to better serve you, as our client across the Chattahoochee Valley.
David brings sharp negotiation skills and market insight, and I bring creative strategy, relationship-driven service, and a love for both Residential and Commercial real estate. Together, we bring a perfect blend of strategy, service, and savvy, to elevate every step of your Real Estate journey.
We believe that real estate is not just about property—it’s about people, purpose, and possibility.
If you’re buying, selling, investing, or just want advice—we’re here for you.
-TheHickoxTeam
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Meet David
"When I think of dedication and drive in Real Estate, I think of David Hickox. Not only is David my professional partner, he’s also my fiancé — which means I get a front-row seat to the determination and care he puts into every property detail and client interaction."
-Evelyn Forston
I’m David Hickox—a dedicated real estate advisor serving the Chattahoochee Valley with a focus on results, relationships, and real value. My approach is grounded in strategy, honesty, and a deep respect for the goals and dreams of every client I work with.
I bring sharp market insight, strong negotiation skills, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset to every transaction. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or expanding your portfolio, I’m here to make the process smooth, strategic, and successful.
As co-lead of The Hickox Team with my fiancé Evelyn—an incredible Realtor and partner in every sense—we combine our strengths to deliver a real estate experience that’s both heart-led and results-driven. Together, we bring creativity, clarity, and commitment to the table every step of the way.
Outside of real estate, I enjoy staying active, watching the Braves and SEC football, working out, spending time with family and my sweet fiancé, Evelyn.
Let’s connect—I’d be honored to help you take the next step with confidence.
Call me at 912-596-4261
Meet Evelyn
Hi, I’m Evelyn Forston —a people-oriented, house-obsessed, dog-loving soul!💛🏡🐾
I'm a Realtor, Advisor and Associate Broker serving both Residential and Commercial Real Estate clients across Georgia and Alabama. I believe Real Estate is more than closings and contracts—it’s about connection, service, and walking with people through some of life’s biggest milestones.
I don't just sell properties—I shepherd people through meaningful life transitions with my professional partner, who is also my fiancé- David Hickox.
Whether I’m helping a family buy their first home, assisting an investor with a new commercial venture, or supporting someone in a major life transition, I treat every client with care, strategy, and heart. My experience spans residential and commercial sales, multi-family, single-family, and property management—which means I can offer smart advice, creative solutions, and real results.
I grew up in the Chattahoochee Valley and proudly graduated from both Brookstone School and Columbus State University. I love this community deeply and it shows in how I live and serve. I’m a 2022 East Alabama Leadership graduate, a 2025 “star” for the Alzheimer’s Association Dancing Stars of Columbus, a member of the East Alabama Board of Realtors, and I serve as the 2025 Entertainment Committee Chair for the Columbus Board of Realtors.
I live, work, and thrive in the Columbus, GA / Phenix City, AL area with my fiancé and real estate partner, David Hickox and my two pups, Cupcake and Aubs. We love helping people turn dreams into keys and investments into income.
Call me at 205-901-6756
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