What better way to celebrate the arrival of summer than with a little al fresco dining. The mood is always different when you’re sharing a meal outside; so much more memorable and magical somehow. Outdoor dining and entertaining brings a relaxed holiday vibe, whether it’s your morning coffee, weekend lunch, or evening meal.

Let your imagination run wild

It doesn’t take that much to transform your outdoor dining experience and key to it all is a gorgeous tablescape. Start with your tablecloth – try either relaxed plain linen, stripes, block prints or checks. The colours can be complementary or contrast with the surroundings. The beauty of garden tables decor is that you can let your imagination run wild, as it’s all temporary and just for the moment.

Vases, candlesticks, jugs and glasses will all bring height, colour and charm to the table. Recycled glass works beautifully in the garden, along with other natural materials like wooden boards for sharing platters, decorated ceramic bowls and rattan mats.

Light up your evening beautifully

Outdoor lighting doesn’t have to be complicated either. Hurricane lanterns with pillar candles work perfectly because the flame is protected from the elements. Moving rechargeable lamps from house to garden will also bring that all-important glow to the setting and light up your evening beautifully.

To make life easier and encourage everyday dining outside, you can always keep a basket handy somewhere in the kitchen with your cloth, napkins, jug, glasses and cutlery, so you can sweep it up in a moment and you’re good to go.
A good tray with high sides is also your best friend for outdoor dining, to make transporting everything so much easier and to bring even more character to the table.

Take inspiration from the experts

When it comes to the ultimate outdoor table settings, take inspiration from the experts. I love block printed tablecloths by Charlotte Gaisford, and Mrs Alice has some fabulous settings to spark your imagination.

You can be bold and brave with your scheme, or keep to one or two colours reflected in your garden. Whatever you choose, the outdoor dining experience will weave its own magic.