Effortless Outdoor Summer Table Setting
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In this post, I’m sharing my tips and tricks for styling an effortless outdoor summer table setting with unique style and creative touches.
This past week I was doing a little computer organizing and stumbled upon some photos of this outdoor summer table setting I created for HomeGoods and realized that I had never shared it here, on Inspired by Charm.
Thinking back, it was one of the first photoshoots I did at my new house. While the space looks a little different now, I am still so pleased with the way it all came together. In this post I want to walk you through how it all gelled and share some creative ideas for creating a similar look.
Effortless Outdoor Summer Table Setting How To:
Before we get started, everything used to set the table is from HomeGoods minus the table (IKEA) and chairs (Target).
This table setting began when I stumbled upon these large galvanized buckets with wood handles. The galvanized buckets just screamed, “Summer entertaining!” I thought they would be perfect for storing extra drinks or holding potted plants. So that’s exactly what I used them for!
Effortless Outdoor Summer Place Setting:
My next find was these grilling pans. Their shape, size, and texture made me think they would make great plate chargers/placements. I couldn’t be more pleased with how they look and function. I love using things in unconventional ways. That’s where the magic happens and how things become unique and personal.
To complete the look, I layered in napkins, plates, flatware, and “glasses”.
I’m typically not a fan of plastic/melamine dining pieces, but if you can believe it, both the plates and glasses are plastic! I really love the effect of these plates / bowls. Their unique shape definitely added something special to the table.
Next, I plucked a couple fern fronds from my landscaping and added them to a jar for a quick touch of nature. This is another reason I love summer: you can turn to your own backyard for decorating inspiration. I’ve already started planting some flowers and greenery here that I can cut and use indoors for décor.
Finally, I used this small double bucket to serve a few pre-dinner snacks. Lined with a coordinating paper napkin, this display of flavored popcorn and treats offers an appealing way to take the edge off your hunger. Even some veggies and dip would make a really tasty pre-dinner snack.
And with that… my effortless outdoor summer table setting was ready for some al fresco entertaining! What do you think?
I found most of the décor and table settings at HomeGoods, but you could certainly find some similar things at your favorite home décor store.
No matter where you shop, I hope you find a few creative ideas to celebrate your summer in style. Happy decorating!
Nice Article Thank You
Michael,
I love, love, love your outdoor table setting! It is so fresh and simple, but just lovely. And I love the idea of the grill pans as chargers! How creative. And this makes it so easy to clear the table when you are finished dining!
Love the table setting
Such creativity! The simplicity is perfect. Some “decorators”/bloggers seem to feel the need to put everything they own on the table!
Hi,
It so inviting for your party of 4. Any ideas that would work for a party of 12?
Thank you ,
Linda
Nice table settings. Good idea.
Wonderful post! As with all the other comments, I thought the grill pan “chargers” were pure genius. I love how you created this setting without making it too “country”, just fresh and relaxed. I’m a fan of melamine for summer dining although mine is an ikat pattern in red and yellow. Using the ferns from your yard adds a lovely touch; if you are choosing more plants, all kinds of ferns and hosta work well for decor cuttings.
Michael such a great idea! Do you remember the brand of your flatware?
The “chargers” are brilliant. Genius. Both words already used but worth saying it again. Thanks for the inspiration!!
As I read through the other comments, I see most readers were as pleasantly surprised as I was about the grilling pans as chargers. THAT IS GENIUS! Love the look and the practicality of them. Also, I’m a gardener and admired your healthy, happy plants. Thanks for sharing this post. I enjoyed it immensely.
Thank you so much, Linda! I love using things in creative ways too! 🙂
xo Michael
Grill pans as chargers? BRILLANT!
Thank you!! I thought they worked out great!
xo Michael
What a fun, summery tabletop! I love the grill pan chargers, very imaginative.
Yes I agree with the others, those grilli pans make really cute chargers. What a relaxed creative alfresco dining tablesetting.
Pat
Agree! Never thought of a grlling pan as a tray. Love your inspiration and creative talent. This casual dining setting is perfect. Thank you.
So Darned Good and who would think that a lowly grill pan could be the elevated to “King Tin” status?