Hosting outdoor parties this Summer? Of course you are. Whether its a backyard barbeque, cocktails on the terrace or a rooftop dance party, you’re going to want a tablescape to set the right mood. If you’re wondering how to set the table, our correspondent Julie Chang Murphy shares inspiration and ideas on the best ways to style your table setting for outdoor summer entertaining this season, including fresh new tablecloths, napkins, platters, and more.
The best ways to style your table for outdoor Summer entertaining
Entertaining outdoors is always a highlight during the summer months. The casual, laid back mood just seems to bring out spontaneous conversation and easy laughter. As we gear up for the alfresco gatherings ahead, it’s all about setting the mood with a stylish tablescape.
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If you’re looking for inspiration and ideas on how to set an outdoor table and elevate your wares, here are a few thoughtful touches that go a long way in transporting your guests. Along with music and cocktails, a cohesive table lets everyone know that they’ve come to a party.
Here are 15 picks for to build upon to create and a beautiful outdoor summer table.
The best ways to style your table for outdoor Summer entertaining
Rustic and Neutral
Inspired by natural materials and the relaxed colors of palms and sand, these tabletop essentials have a homey but refined look full of texture and sophisticated graphic elements.
1. Johanna Ortiz Serving Plate
This wood, Iraca palm and glass bead serving plate deserves its spot as the centerpiece of the table. Inspired by the designer’s native Colombia, it’s part of her home collection that’s all about lush surroundings and barefoot glamour.
BUY NOW – $850.
2. Amanda Lindroth Tablecloth
For a new outdoor tablecloth, we always love a hand-blocked Batik print. It’s the perfect print that can be layered and coordinated with just about anything. In a coral colorway, it adds warmth and cheer to the table.
BUY NOW – $160 for 60 x 120.
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3. Food52 x Kate Roebuck Plates
Chattanooga-based artist Kate Roebuck designed these graphic leaf-studded plates to be mixed and matched. They’re made of eco-friendly bamboo fiber (but still dishwasher safe)!
BUY NOW – $36.75 for set of 4.
4. Tuckernuck Tumblers
Woven seagrass give these glasses a coastal flair perfect for dining alfresco or cocktails by the pool.
BUY NOW – $78 for set of 6.
5. Chefanie Card Holders
If you’re hosting a dinner party, guest placement is key. Chefanie was founded by New York-based caterer, culinary influencer, and designer, chef Stephanie Nass. These bamboo card holders would be a perfect fit for a Asian-influenced meal.
BUY NOW – $35 for set of 4.
Fresh and Fruity
For more informal gatherings with families and children, the playful and vibrant colors of ripened fruit is a festive choice for how to set the outdoor table in a fresh new way.
1. The Well Appointed House Napkin Rings
This set of charming raffia napkin rings are such a cheerful conversation starter. The handmade set includes 2 cherries, 2 oranges and 2 lemons to freshen up the table.
BUY NOW – $152 for set of 6.
2. Cabana Magazine Placemats
For a whimsical touch, we love these pink and green placemats which conjure all the best summer fruits.
BUY NOW – $105 for set of 2.
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3. Bordallo Pinheiro Salad Bowl
Your watermelon feta salad needs this bowl. Made in Portugal from earthenware using centuries old techniques, it will be a family favorite for years to come.
BUY NOW – $61.
4. Summerill and Bishop Tablecloth
For a new outdoor look, this rainbow linen poplin tablecloth instantly brings a jovial mood to any event. The painterly effect keeps it artsy and elevated without veering into kid party territory.
BUY NOW – $329 for 250 x 165.
5. MoMA Chopsticks
How fun are these lacquered wood chopsticks? As an added bonus, guests will have no trouble remembering which utensil is theirs.
BUY NOW – $39 for 12 pairs.
Seaside Blues
If you’re lucky enough to be entertaining at a summer beach house, there is no shame in leaning into the paradise by the ocean theme. Channeling waves and sea life sets a magical tone for the evening.
1. Lobmeyr Tumbler and Carafe Set
Lobmeyr is a sixth-generation Austrian glassware company known for their luxurious crystal. This set features whimsically hand painted sea creatures that will delight all guests.
BUY NOW – $644.
2. Kim Seybert Napkins
Add some beautiful organic forms to a nautical table with this set of napkins. The intricate embroidery depicts Koi fish, coral and underwater flora on a crisp white linen.
BUY NOW – $140 for set of 4.
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3. Yotam Ottolenghi Platter
British-Israeli chef Yotam Ottolenghi partnered with Italian artist Ivo Bisignano to create these abstract outdoor ready table platters designed for family style feasts.
BUY NOW – $90.
4. Nomi K Placemats
A little sparkle on the table goes a long way. The turquoise glass beads of this coral inspired placemat add a touch of luxury even if you’re just dining on take out from the local crab shack.
BUY NOW – $80.
5. Mepra Flatware
Italian design house Mepra’s flatware is made from high-resistance resin for those glossy vibrant color tones. This set comes in a mix of subtle coastal inspired tones and yes, it’s dishwasher safe!
BUY NOW – $371 for 20pc set.
how to set an outdoor table this summer
There’s some inspiration and a few ideas on the best ways to style your table setting for outdoor summer entertaining this season, including fresh new tablecloths, napkins, platters, and more.
Cheers to effortless summer entertaining! From platters to napkins to flatware, being party ready is just a few pieces away.
join our community
For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier Newsletter here. And see luxury in a new light.
This article contains affiliate links to products independently selected by our editors. As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, Dandelion Chandelier receives a commission for qualifying purchases made through these links.
Crediting her training as a cultural anthropologist at Wellesley College, Julie has immersed herself in various industries in the last 15 years including fashion design, event planning, and fitness. Julie lives in New York where she loves trying every ramen and dumpling restaurant with her husband and three children. She finds joy in bold prints, biographies of fierce women, kickboxing. And spending way too long finding the perfect polish color to express her mood.