What is the purpose of charger plates?
Charger plates - also known as service plates or underplates - are the unsung heroes of a well-dressed table. They sit beneath your dinnerware during formal meals, adding a decorative layer that elevates the whole setting. But they’re more than just visual flair. A charger helps to frame the place setting, protect your tablecloth from spills, and offer a stable base for hot dishes. In short, they keep things neat while making everything look effortlessly polished.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a wedding reception, or simply want to bring a touch of restaurant-style presentation to your home, charger plates create a sense of occasion. They give structure and balance to your table layout, encouraging you to slow down, savour, and appreciate every course - from starter to dessert. A well-placed charger says: this meal matters.
Set the tone from the first glance
When guests take their seats, it’s often the charger plate they see first. That initial impression - whether it’s a warm, rustic charger beneath a hearty winter dish, or a sleek metallic accent that sparkles under candlelight - helps shape the entire dining experience. Chargers act as a canvas, allowing the colours and textures of your dinnerware to stand out. They give you room to play with contrast, coordinate your décor, and reflect your personal style.
At Rinkit, we offer charger plates in a range of finishes and materials - from classic glass with gold trim to woven styles for a more natural, laid-back look. They’re not just for special events. Many customers use them year-round, switching between sets to match the season or occasion. Think bold reds for Christmas, pastel tones for spring, or timeless white for everyday use. It’s a simple way to refresh your table without replacing your entire dinnerware collection.
Style that doesn’t sit on ceremony
You don’t need to throw a banquet to enjoy charger plates. Their elegance might hark back to grand dining traditions, but they’re surprisingly easy to incorporate into modern life. Use them to bring structure to casual meals or create a sense of ritual around Sunday roasts and birthday dinners. They help signal that something a little special is about to happen - even if it’s just a midweek treat.