Tips on Creating a Beautiful Outdoor Tablescape.

Summer months are the perfect time of year to create an outdoor tablescape! The weather is finally warm enough to be entertaining outside and so why shouldn't you entertain on a beautifully decorated table. In my opinion, I think summer tablescapes are more fun! Even when hosting an elegant and classy event, meaning its not your "typical" outdoor bbq, the atmosphere feels less stuffy because it's taking place outdoors. And so, why not go all out in creating a beautiful tablescape to set the mood!

I have a few tips on how you can create an outdoor tablescape for a summer party that feels charming and beautiful. Basically, there are 3 "must-haves" that I would suggest and the rest is all filler...(filler meaning dishes, utensils, drinkware and duh... food of course!) They are... theme, centerpiece and lighting.

-First, I would say think about the theme your going with: Meaning how do you want to decorate- what kind of mood or vibe are you feeling?! I listed a few examples below, but there are endless options to choose from!

Theme:

-Coastal or Beach theme - sea shells, starfish, burlap, candles in hurricane jars, drift wood, woven placemats or themed napkins).

-Classic red, white and blue theme: - you can be creative here and mix and match anything red, white or blue. Add in stars, stripes, flags and hydrangeas to pull it all together).

-Summer-floral theme: - there is no right or wrong way to do this- anything from white to vibrant florals will be beautiful on your table. You can create a big centerpiece display or use a few smaller vases. Mason jars filled with greenery or flowers work too!

-Lobster and crab fest theme- starfish, sea shells, dishes with crab or lobster images, lobster or crab table-theme runner or ocean theme dinner napkins etc... (Amazon sells lobster decorations)

-Fruit & Floral: create a floral garland using some greenery and mix in lemons, limes, oranges and flowers)

-Picnic theme: checkered plates tablecloth or napkins, picnic baskets, mason jars, lemonade).

-Luau party: grass skirts, tropical themed plates or napkins, colorful glassware, woven placemats, greenery like palm leaves- you can use them as a table runner or as a placemat, tropical flowers and coconuts).

Of course, I haven't covered all the possible themes- there are endless options to explore!! Above were just a few for some inspiration. When creating your summer tablescape, remember, it doesn't have to be excessive or over the top - Choose to make it effortless and elegant by adding a bouquet of flowers and some linen napkins and call it a day! If that's too understated then there's a variety of looks you can create ranging from bright and bold to chic and sophisticated : )

**Tip- My go to in tablescaping is using white dishes. This acts as a true blank canvas to add in color and decor, making your table feel festive and beautiful : ) Also, adding candles to any of these themes will definitely help set the mood and create an elegant ambience.

photo credit midwest life & style

I seriously forgot the picture with the silverware!

photo credit Taryn & CO

Centerpiece:

-So you know what theme your working with, now you'll need to decide on a centerpiece. Do you want to make a statement with a dramatic display of flowers, or create multiple smaller bouquets? Using smaller arrangements create an elongated effect on the table and as a bonus, will help you see the person across from you, so you can actually have a conversation without looking around the big centerpiece. Or, maybe it's a beach theme and you want to use a few pieces of drift wood and some candles layered around the table. For a summery vibe, you can choose something simple and display fruit on the table in big bowls or even decorate a garland using flowers, lemons and limes. For a fresh look, decorate with clear vases filled with lemons and limes. Perhaps your going for a romantic vibe and fill the entire table with candles, string lights and lanterns.

Tip: If you use candles make sure they are battery operated or in hurricane classes so they stay lit and won't keep blowing out!

Lighting:

-Last but not least would be lighting: Lighting will definitely set the mood for any event your having, including a bbq party. A favorite of mine is string lights- they really have a charming effect of creating a cozy atmosphere. If there's a way you can hang them over your table- that would definitely be beautiful, otherwise they can be draped across the table or used in clear vases, so you can still experience the glowy ambience. Lanterns and candles are also great additional lighting. If you can't fit them on the table, try them as a border around the table- it will still give off that cozy feel! I just found this table rod stand that's perfect for draping string lights. I will definitely be using it this summer and will post about it!!

Hope some of these tips make your outdoor tablescape feel beautiful!!

Making thing pretty xo