Tips and Ideas for an Outdoor Table Setting

Join me on my deck as I share my colorful and inviting table setting. I’ll walk you through the process as to how I created this summertime tablescape and share some tips to help you recreate the look!

Tips and Ideas for an Outdoor Table Setting:

As you know, I’ve shared a lot of table settings on Inspired by Charm over the years. (You can see more of them HERE.) In some ways, I feel like they are overdone in the blog world. However, they are so fun to create and I still hope my table settings will at least give you an idea or two to assist you if you happen to be hosting anyone outdoors in the near future. If you’re all good with your tablescaping skills, feel free to scroll on by. No offense is taken.

I actually created this particular outdoor table setting for my friends over at HomeGoods. They wanted a post about outdoor entertaining, so I thought this would be the perfect fit! As you’re reading, if you’re thinking “I wonder where he got that?”, the likely answer is HomeGoods!

I thought the best way to share tablescaping ideas would be to walk you through my thought process and steps for putting something like this together. I won’t go through every detail, but I will point out a few important ones. If you have questions or there is something that I missed, just let me know in the comment section at the end of this post.

Last but not least, I should mention that I created this outdoor table setting for a styled photoshoot. Please don’t feel overwhelmed or feel that this is the “standard” for outdoor entertaining. You do you! Even if you only take one or two of these ideas, that will be good enough. Entertaining shouldn’t be stressful. Do what you can/want and remember to have fun with it.

Create Direction:

Whenever I’m decorating a table, I find it easiest to start with a theme or color scheme. Having some direction makes the whole process much easier.

My inspiration for this table was these acrylic cups with lemon graphics. I used the colors in the graphics (yellow, green, and pink) as I made the selections for the rest of my table.

Having some sort of direction or focus really makes the process easy and effortless. Stick within your theme and you’ll have a pulled-together look every time.

Add Layers:

If you’re looking to add a lot of depth and interest to your table setting, consider adding layers. Think about using materials with different textures and sheens for maximum appeal and interest.

As you can see here, I started with a tablecloth, added placemats, and even layered my dinnerware. This is always a great way to add different textures to your table and it will also add interest and appeal.

Incorporate Luxury:

Just because you’re entertaining outdoors doesn’t mean you need to use disposable products. Unless a meal or an occasion is extremely casual, I opt for a fabric tablecloth and napkins whenever possible. It makes the table and meal feel much more elegant and special. It adds a touch of luxury. Plus, you can just wash them afterward and use them again.

I also opted for melamine dinnerware. I especially love this set because it looks so chic. This set looks like stone/terrazzo. It always works well with my color scheme.

Must Haves:

I think there are at least two things that every table needs to have. These two must-haves are flowers and candles. Even if you go with just the very basics: plate, flatware, napkins, and glasses, I still highly recommend some sort of botanical element and a candle or two. As you can see, I went a little more elaborate here, but even something as simple as a branch cut from your backyard and inexpensive tea lights will do the trick.

Candles add warmth, light, and movement that you can’t really achieve any other way. I also recommend going with unscented candles for a table setting. You do not want to take away from the amazing aromas of your meal.

Also, get creative and think beyond flowers for your botanical element. If you have some extra produce or fruit from the meal, try adding those to the table. A display of fresh fruit and vegetables can be just as colorful and inviting.

Recipe Ideas:

Finally, what’s an outdoor table setting without some delicious snacks and beverages? Here are a few of my favorite treats that I love for entertaining. They would be perfect for this table setting or any outdoor gathering.

• Cold Appetizers for Entertaining
• The Best Lemon Recipes
• Unique Salad Recipe Ideas
• Sangria for Every Season

And that’s it! As I mentioned above, keep it simple and fun. Do what works for you and avoid stress.

I have one additional item that I wanted to share with you. As you know, I have been developing my art practice over the past year or so. When I shared a picture from this outdoor table setting on Instagram, an artist friend of mine said I needed to paint it.

So, I did just that!

As with any of my art, I’m not sharing it thinking that it is a masterpiece. The goal of my art journey is to learn, practice, and have fun. That was the goal with this piece. Yes, I would certainly change some things, but I’m so happy that I was encouraged to give it a try. I had fun during the process and was pleased with the end result.

If you’re curious about my art journey, you can read about how I got started HERE and find some of my favorite art supplies HERE.

And with that, I’d say this outdoor table setting is complete and ready for company! Won’t you join me?

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