Flavor combinations such as sweet, spicy, and bland are other considerations. The current trend in table fashions is, just about anything goes. Use of colors or florals is a personal choice. There are no fixed rules about what to use and when to use it. As you prepare foods just keep in mind that the foods should always look attractive and appealing against the table cover and place settings used.
Table settings can range from the informal to the very formal.
The choice is yours and is determined by the mood of your bed and breakfast and the feelings you want to convey to your guests at the meal. It is not necessary to always cover a table completely. However, there are very few occasions when there is not at least a place mat, doily or cloth between the dish and the table. It is important to consider the nutritional needs of your guests. You may want to inquire ahead of time if a guest has any specific dietary needs.