There’s something about summer that makes hosting feel more effortless- meals move outdoors, the days stretch longer, and everything feels a bit more casual. I recently styled our patio dining table, putting the outdoor kitchen to good use, for our first summer dinner party of the season! If you’re planning to entertain this summer (or just want to make your weeknight dinner feel more special), I’m sharing easy tips for setting a stunning al fresco table that looks elevated but relaxed. Let’s dive in…
I shared our outdoor kitchen reveal last October and we’re finally putting it to good use. I absolutely adore our patio tile (check out this post on how to easily tile over an existing concrete patio). Since the weather has been so nice, we’ve been grilling a lot lately, enjoying the occasional patio spritz, and eating week night dinners out here (before it gets unbearably hot). Since we have friends here visiting, I wanted to host a festive al fresco dinner party, pulling together a special table to celebrate the season and good company.
My Go-To Foundations for a Summer Tablescape
Creating a beautiful outdoor table doesn’t require a full redesign or fancy, expensive florals. Here’s what I used to keep things effortless, cohesive, and elevated… I’ll use these all basics all summer long.
Linen Tabletop Basics
- Linen is the perfect material for summer hosting. I snagged a tablecloth and gingham napkins from Quince, which felt like a classic place to start. They instantly soften the vignette, adding timeless texture. I went with neutral tones- a mix of warm whites and green, for a clean, natural, and casual look.
- I also styled my favorite textural woven table runner. I’ve been using this for years! I love how it creates the foundation for a centerpiece, while adding warmth.
Simple Centerpieces
- Instead of splurging on expensive florals that can droop with the heat, I shuffled some of my herbs and plants from the garden, creating a centerpiece with functional greenery in terracotta pots for an organic, easy look.
- I pulled out my hurricanes and a few green taper candles to complete the aesthetic, adding height and ambiance without overpowering the table.
Everyday Tableware
- I’m a big believer in using what you have. The easier you make the table setting process, the more frequently you’ll set aside time for these sweet al fresco moments. I just like using our everyday tableware. I don’t even own a melamine set, and have yet to break anything.
- Looking for a budget version of my plates? Check out my comparison here… Pillivuyt French Dinnerware vs Budget Target Comparison.
- I still really love our bamboo flatware… though I did order these French steak knives awhile back to pair alongside them.
- Last, I added green glassware I’ve been storing in our cabinet, which brings a little charm without looking too monochromatic or perfect next to our basic wine glasses.
Ambience & Summer Lighting
- String lights overhead and our solar landscape lighting on the ground kept the mood cozy after sunset.
- I’m still enjoying our little cordless lamps. I keep them in the outdoor kitchen cabinet and pull them out when we’re hanging on the patio. They’re lightweight and easy to move around.
- Don’t forget a lightweight throw on the back of a chair or two… it gets chilly in the evenings- this is even common during the summer months at our altitude.
My Outdoor Dinner Party
I’m so happy our patio is setup for the season! I’ll admit, we still have a bit of tiling to do on the other side- but it’s nice to be enjoying this outdoor space ahead of the official start to summer.
I use a lot of green when styling outdoor spaces because it looks so beautiful against trees, the grass, and plants found in your natural landscape. It’s an easy monochromatic color when used outdoors, and it feels very cohesive.
I’ve also loved having outdoor refrigeration! From our refrigerated drawers to the beverage fridge, it has been super nice for keeping drinks- especially while hosting. Not the mention the hidden outdoor trash, has been a complete game changer for dinner parties. So much easier!
Get the Look
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Here is everything I used to pull this look together- let me know if you’re curious about specific sources. I’m always happy to share or elaborate!
5 Styling Tips for Outdoor Entertaining
Here are a few design and styling tips I always keep in mind when entertaining outside. If you’re trying to impress guests with a seasonal tablescape, start with these…
- Think in Layers. From table linens to serveware, layering creates visual interest. Start with a neutral base, then layer in texture and tone-on-tone, monochromatic details.
- Keep it Functional. Skip extra tall centerpieces or anything that blocks your line of vision when conversing. Opt for low, spread-out elements to encourage conversation.
- Prep in Advance. Set the table early in the day and choose a menu that can be prepped in advance… that way, you’re not scrambling while guests arrive.
- Let the Setting Shine. Summer is the season to let your surroundings do the heavy lifting. Style around your patio, garden, or view- don’t overcomplicate it. Just like I grabbed herbs from my garden and our regular plates from the kitchen, use what you have on hand.
- Don’t Skip Lighting. Mood lighting is key for summer ambiance. Never skip the string lights, aim for dinner at dusk or golden hour, light the candles, be a little extra with the outdoor lamps, and lean into lighting your outdoor space.
FAQ
Linen is my go-to for outdoor entertaining. It’s breathable, naturally textured, and gets better with age.
I use glass hurricanes- or you could choose flameless LED tapers with a realistic flicker- both work beautifully and keep the summer evening vibe.
Absolutely! I always do. Just avoid anything too delicate. Stoneware, ceramic, and glass are sturdy, stylish choices. If you’re hosting an adult-only dinner party, I wouldn’t worry at all. I’ve yet to have anything break. You may want to swap dinnerware for children.
Start with three: a tablecloth or runner, basic dinnerware, and one statement layer (like napkin rings, greenery, or a centerpiece).
Lighting! Candles, lanterns, or overhead lights can totally transform the vibe, even if everything else is simple.
Related
Looking for more inspiring summer posts? I’m going to share some of my favorites with you below! It’s the best season to entertain, tackle projects, and enjoy the outdoors…
- 25 Neutral & Beautiful Outdoor Area Rugs for the Patio
- How to Choose a Timeless and Durable Outdoor Dining Set That Will Last
- 10 Timeless, Budget-Friendly 4th of July Decorating Ideas
- 25 Tablecloths Perfect for Summer Dinner Parties
- Gardening with the Phases of the Moon: Lunar Planting Guide
- Al Fresco Summer Tablescape
- Where to Install Outdoor DIY Solar Landscape Lighting
- Outdoor Living & Decor Finds from Amazon
- My Go-To Spring Gardening Essentials from Lowe’s
- Summer Recipe : Campari Olive Oil Cake
Summer entertaining doesn’t have to be elaborate to feel special. With a few thoughtful touches- like layered linen, natural elements, and ambient lighting, you can create an inviting table that feels both elevated and easy. Whether it’s a casual dinner with friends or a weekend celebration, I hope this inspires you to host outdoors this season! Stay tuned for more summer styling ideas and entertaining inspiration. I love this time of year.
The post How to Set a Summer Table for Outdoor Entertaining appeared first on Room For Tuesday.
