Creating an outdoor dining space is a great way to extend the livable area of your home. What can be better than dining al fresco? Don’t know where to start? Let the outdoors be your guide.
I did this recently when I was creating a space for a photo shoot to help my friend Susie at Curtis Creation launch her fall product line. I can’t think of a better backdrop than the open air. And while I was at it, you can bet I was gonna take advantage and serve dinner right here after the shoot was over.
I chose a space in the yard that in past years served as our vegetable garden. For so many reasons we chose not to do a big garden this year and so this little spot right next to my shed was the perfect spot.
I don’t have a table designated for outdoor entertaining and if you don’t either, why not consider bringing your indoor table out. The table I used for this shoot was one I don’t use for dining but I do use it in my She Shed as my office desk. Although I do love it, it’s much too small for dinner parties on a larger scale, however, I knew it would be perfect for this party of 2 so I drug it outside. It was just the right rustic piece for the vintage vibe I was searching for.
Centerpiece
One of my favorite things about styling is creating centerpieces. When you’re looking for a centerpiece, you don’t have to go any further than your own backyard (or maybe your neighbor’s back yard). Don’t have a flower garden? That’s okay, too. Clippings from a tree or bush can make a dramatic impact. For this table setting, I wanted to keep it simple. My Spirea just happened to be blooming so adding one bloom to each small glass jar and repeating the pattern all the way down the table kept the centerpiece low for easy conversation during dinner without blocking the view across the table. Add plates, chargers and other festive decorations and you’ve got yourself a dinner party.
Ambiance
Every outdoor space needs some ambiance and adding lighting is the best way to set the mood. Gathering lanterns and hanging string lights will keep your party going long after dark.
Improvise
If you’d rather not bring your indoor table outside, why not improvise and throw out a blanket on the grass under a tree for an old fashioned picnic. Remember the kind you had when you were a kid? My mom always made an everyday-ordinary picnic special. Even on the ground you can create a space that is inviting. String some lights in a tree and set lanterns all around, or hang a chandelier from a tree like I did here. Formality isn’t a must. I styled this space at the last minute earlier this summer for an impromptu happy hour. Adding oversized throw pillows will make sure you and your guest(s) stay cozy. Fluffy white dog is optional.
Make It An Event
Whatever your dinner plans are, you don’t have wait to have guests over to make it special. Treat yourself and make it an event. The meal, itself, doesn’t have to be extravagant to be fun. Throw open your doors and get the outdoor party started.
