Eating outside should be easy and relaxing, which is why I wanna share with you my top 5 dining al fresco table styling tips that’ll make outdoor entertaining simple and enjoyable.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy dining outside. There’s no better time to appreciate a delicious meal outside in the fresh air.
Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, a picnic, or a dinner party, dining al fresco is a great way to entertain your friends and family while soaking in the Summer weather.
To make your outdoor dining experience even more enjoyable, it’s important to style your table in a way that creates a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere.
One that encourages your guests to mingle, connect and unwind.
That’s why I’m excited to share with you my top dining al fresco table styling tips that will make your outdoor gatherings memorable.
5 Dining Al Fresco Table Styling Tips
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1. Embrace Nature on Your Tablescape
When it comes to al fresco dining, embrace the nature around you.
Where ever you are ~ use the natural beauty of your outdoor surroundings as inspiration. Incorporate elements like fresh flowers, foliage, seashells, or even small potted plants as centerpieces or decorative accents.
These natural elements can create a calming and peaceful atmosphere while embracing your surroundings.
Perfect for outdoor dining.
2. Choose the Right Tableware When Dining Al Fresco
Choosing the right tableware is important when styling your al fresco dining table.
Opt for outdoor-friendly tableware such as durable melamine or bamboo plates, shatterproof glasses, and lightweight cutlery. These materials are both practical and stylish.
Consider using outdoor-friendly tablecloths or placemats that are easy to clean. There are beautiful oilcloth tablecloths in stores and online, or opt for pretty vinyl placemats.
Don’t forget to add some colorful napkins to your table for some extra flair.
*Tip: if it’s super windy outside, use tablecloth weights or clips to keep your tablecloth in place.
3. Lighting Matters for Eating Outside
Enhance the ambiance of eating outside with appropriate lighting. During the day, take advantage of natural sunlight. In the evening, make sure your guests can see what their eating and drinking. Consider string lights or even solar-powered garden lights.
You can also set the mood with candle lanterns. Candles in hurricane vases add a cozy and intimate touch. Just be sure to use flameless candles if there’s a risk of fire.
This will create a cozy and inviting ambiance your guests will appreciate.
4. Comfortable Outdoor Seating
Ensure your guests are comfortable by providing cozy seating options. Comfortable chairs and cushions can make a big difference in creating a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere outside.
Provide enough seating for all your guests, and consider adding cushions, some outdoor throw pillows, or blankets to make your guests feel extra comfortable.
Think about using outdoor rugs to define seating areas and add a warm, homey feeling to the space.
5. Consider the Elements Outside
Make sure to choose tableware and decorations that can withstand the elements. Opt for durable materials like plastic or melamine that won’t break easily.
When dining al fresco, there tend to be more obstacles which makes it easier to drop things than when you’re dining inside.
If you’re hosting a daytime event, make sure to provide shade for your guests. Consider using umbrellas, or a canopy, or take advantage of strategically placing your table(s) under the shade of trees.
Not only will this make your guests more comfortable, but it’ll also help protect your food (and them) from the sun.
If your outdoor setting has lots of flying insects, strategically place citronella candles, bug deterrent herbs or other plants on the table, or place small attractive fans around the space. This should keep them at bay during your gathering.
*When you’re planning on dining alfresco, you want to enjoy the time with your guests and being outside. This dining outdoors checklist will come in very handy.
There you have it, my friend!
I hope these 5 dining al fresco table styling tips will help you create a beautiful and inviting outdoor experience.
I’m sure you’ll impress your friends and family, and make your outdoor gatherings even more enjoyable.
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