It’s no secret that some of the best conversations happen over meals, be that casual family gatherings or longer dinner party suppers. And while food and conversation are important elements at mealtimes, so too is the table setting. Who hasn’t walked into a home as a guest and felt pleasure at the sight of a beautifully laid table awaiting them. A sign that the host has taken time and care to welcome you, their creativity with flowers and candles and tableware setting the stage for the experience and memories to come.

Considered table settings are no modern convention. King Louis XIV was the first monarch to offer place settings for each guest. Until then, drinking cups had been shared between diners. By the eighteenth century, table settings had become extremely elaborate with a focus on symmetry and uniformity. Unsurprisingly, the Victorians formalised the etiquette, especially the placement of cutlery, driven by the desire to express wealth and status.

Thankfully, today, life is more relaxed, but the basics of table settings haven’t changed that much. There are some cultural differences – the French lay placements with the tines of the forks facing down (apparently to show the silversmith’s hallmark on the underside), and the Americans always place the napkin on the left whereas in Britain its position is optional. But despite our differences, appreciation of a well-laid table is universally shared.

At Neptune, the focus is on tableware that feels comfortable to use and is beautiful to look at – simple, artisanal crockery from Portugal in organic shapes and soft earthy colours, pure linen tablecloths and napkins, and well-weighted cutlery. Glassware designs range from chic cocktail glasses to refined wine glasses and casual tumblers.

Happily, creativity rules when it comes to a beautiful table setting. Mixing patterned and plain china, arranging inventive and unexpected centrepieces, using a mishmash of candlesticks – anything goes. Colour is a useful starting point and will help establish the mood of the tablescape. And while there are the traditional rules for setting plates, cutlery and glassware, there’s also plenty of scope for individuality and self-expression. Ultimately, a pretty table setting is not just the stage for meals but a platform for making memories with loved ones.