I am so excited to be sharing an outdoor tablescape with you today and maybe even more happy that we are finally getting some beautiful weather to entertain outdoors. The sun has come out and we have started having little get togethers outside and it makes me so happy. I think dining outdoors is so peaceful and relaxing. If you have been following my blog over the years, you know that I love to put together pretty tables, and this time of the year just seems to be the most fun! I am also sharing with you 13 other tablescape ideas that I think you will love!
The only things I purchased for my table were inexpensive grocery store flowers and a cake. Everything else I had on hand. I have heard from people that tables can be overwhelming or maybe feel a little frivolous or extravagant, but the key is to collect neutral everyday items like white dishes, clear glasses, etc. They are easy to pull out at a moments notice and match any theme. Inexpensive grocery store flowers add a pop of color to make all of the neutral dishes a little more exciting. As the plants outside mature, I love to use clippings from around my yard for centerpieces as well.
Food can make a beautiful centerpiece and it doesn't have to take much time at all. A cut-up watermelon, fruit in a bowl, a cake or cupcakes are a few ideas. I grabbed this cinnamon pull-apart bread (monkey bread) from the grocery store and whipped up a little icing to add to the top. It looked so delicious at the store and I thought it would be a fun addition as a birthday cake for my sister in law.
We bought these tables and chairs from Ikea last year and have absolutely loved them. The chairs fold flat for easy storage and the tables do too (by removing 2 small bolts. I don't keep the tables out here all of the time because the sprinklers would destroy them, but I do keep them handy and pull them out here quite often in the summer for outdoor entertaining and just quiet dinners with the family.
When my hubby and I were first married, I found these vintage juice glasses at a thrift store in his hometown. My sister in law pointed them out and I just had to have them. They certainly don't make things like they used to; these glasses are heavy and just so beautiful. They are still one of my very favorite finds. Thrift stores are a great place to buy plates, glassware, and serveware as they usually have a large supply and are very inexpensive. So, if you are still collecting your neutral key pieces and everyday items, they are a great place to check.
If you follow me on Instagram, then you have seen this little nook we added to the backyard. I wanted a little area for the kids to sit and read and snuggle. We don't have a huge backyard, but adding little spaces to utilize the space we have has helped to make it feel homey and inviting.
I love using candles outdoors. I think it adds the best ambiance as the evening sun begins to fade. I always want people to feel they can comfortably linger as long as they want.
I have had this antique tablecloth in my stash for a long time- probably 20 years. I love an excuse to pull out and use my favorite things.
Over the years we have somehow managed to lose a bunch of our silverware and have a hodge podge in its place. One of these days I will make the investment for new pieces, but for now I just use this realistic looking plastic silver flatware. It's a little trick that I have shared here in years past, but it always makes me giggle a little. Smoke and mirrors I guess.
One of my very favorite things about entertaining outdoors is when the dusk sets in and the haze of darkness begins to settle over everything. There is a sweetness in the smell of the air and things begin to cool slightly. It is magical.
As promised, here are 14 tablescape ideas you will love for your outdoor gatherings this summer!
Rooms for Rent | Pine and Prospect Home | Ella Claire | Modern Glam
Maison De Cinq | Boxwood Avenue | Crazy Wonderful | Jenna Kate at Home
Willow Street Interiors | Amber Tysl | Sincerely Marie Designs | Paint Me Pink
Lynds
Absolutely love everything!!!! But where do you get the hanging lights over the metal bench??
I really love everything you do. Your Christmas is also a favorite of mine!!
Thanks for share!!
Lynda
Kristen Whitby
Thank you so much! I found those solar lights at homegoods!
Alejandra
Lovely tablescape! May I ask, where did you get the lanterns on the tree? Are they solar? Thanks in advance!
Kristen Whitby
Yes, they are solar! I found them at homegoods.
Andrea
Every time you share this space I am sooo inspired. We have a shed at the back of our property and my dream is to make it look like yours one day!! This was just so beautiful! 🙂
Ashley Stringfellow
Kristen, your outdoor tables always take my breath away! Absolutely gorgeous!
Nan, Odessa, DE
Where can I purchase the candle in your tree? Candles? Battery? Solar? Help!!!!!!!
Love your glasses. What a find.
You can also use lace panel curtains as table covers.
Thanks to your reply!
Kristen Whitby
They are solar lights that I found at homegoods .
shelley
What a gorgeous setting out there! I love that vintage lace piece you have. Also, I now reeeeeally want some monkey bread!