Do you know that feeling when everything just comes together—a warm breeze, a lovely table, and good company? That’s the magic of an outdoor setting. Let’s create that feeling together with a few simple styling tips in today’s blog: How to Set the Table Outside.
Preparation
A parasol is a great place to start. Not just for shade, but because it helps define the space around the table and makes everything feel more welcoming.
Make sure the table is stable and give it a good clean.
Think about whether you’ll need a bit of extra space. A side table for extra drinks perhaps or a few extra foldable chars.
When guests arrive, I like to welcome them with a cocktail like Mimosa or Piña Colada. Just the color alone brings an instant summer feeling. 🍍🌞
What Can Inspire Your Table Setting?
Nature is always a wonderful starting point — think wildflowers, fresh herbs, or a simple bowl of lemons 🍋. These not only spark ideas but also bring a touch of the outdoors right to your table.
You can also draw inspiration from a favorite holiday destination. Maybe the breezy charm of the North Sea coast, or the relaxed, coastal feeling of the U.S. East Coast. (Take a look at my blog Summer Finds: Souvenirs to Bring the Beach Home for ideas!)
Another lovely way to set the tone is with color. Let the yellow of the sun — or a softer ochre — guide you. Or go for greens inspired by woods and meadows, or deep blues from navy-style getaways. The colors blooming in your garden can also lead you toward a natural and harmonious palette, or the color of your chairs like the red, yellow, orange ones below.
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What Do You Need to Set the Table? 🌿
Let Linen Do the Work
A beautiful wooden table makes a lovely backdrop for your dinnerware — even simple wicker placemats look right at home outdoors. But if you want to add softness and a touch of elegance, drape the table with a flowy linen tablecloth and oversized napkins. They catch the breeze beautifully and make everything feel more inviting.
Mix and Match Your Tableware
Don’t be afraid to combine textures: enamel with ceramics, glass with wood, porcelain with rattan. I still use a yellow-and-white dinnerware set from an old picnic basket — and I love pairing those cheerful plates with my everyday Iittala ones. A picnic plate on top of a classic dinner plate can add both color and charm.
Have something floral, like dishes with little daisies? This is the perfect moment to bring them out. 🌼
Lately, I’ve fallen for a new bistro-style tableware collection from H&M — black and white, with that effortless Parisian café vibe. It mixes beautifully with natural materials like wood or rattan, and gives even a simple breakfast outdoors a chic little upgrade. 🥐☕
Tip: A long cutting board (or a few small ones lined up) also works beautifully as a base for snacks or desserts. (panna cotta, fruits, coulis)
Carafe and Glasses
Serving water from a carafe always feels a little more elegant than straight from the tap. You could use a classic porcelain jug — or try a silver-toned pitcher, like this Georg Jensen look-alike. Silver gives the impression of cool, refreshing water.
A glass dispenser is a lovely option too. Add a few lemon slices and sprigs of mint, and you’ve instantly created a little celebration.
When it comes to glasses, I tend to avoid stemmed ones outdoors — even a small wobble in the table can make them feel unsteady. I prefer the timeless shape of Picardie tumblers. They’re sturdy, elegant, and feel good in your hand.
For extra safety and ease, acrylic glasses are a wonderful alternative — especially if little ones are around, or you’re dining on a tiled terrace.
Light It Up Gently
If you’re planning an evening dinner, soft lighting makes all the difference. Think lanterns, candles in jars, or even a small portable lamp. The glow adds atmosphere — and helps everyone see what they’re eating 😉. Add candles (real or LED) for a soft flicker, and your table will feel complete.
Flatware
A flatware caddy with a handle is both practical and charming — especially if you’re eating buffet-style or want guests to help themselves.
And finally…
Flowers (or herbs)
Always a good idea. Fresh flowers from the garden in a simple vase, or even a few wild blooms in a jar, bring everything together. As an alternative think about herbs in pots.
Bonus Tips
- Weigh it Down
Even a gentle breeze can send napkins flying. Use napkin rings, pebbles, or even tie the napkins with a sprig of rosemary to keep them in place (and add a lovely scent!). - Think of Comfort
Add cushions to your garden chairs, especially if the meal will last a while. A folded throw or light shawl on the back of each chair invites your guests to linger longer as the evening cools down. - Set the Mood with Music
Soft background music — a jazz playlist, French café tunes, or something coastal and relaxed — can bring the whole setting to life. - 🐝 Keep the Bugs Away
A small citronella candle, lavender in a pot, or a bowl with sliced lemon and cloves can gently help keep insects at bay — without harsh smells or sprays. - 🧂 Don’t Forget the Little Things
Salt and pepper, olive oil, or a dipping bowl — these small additions make your outdoor table just as complete and thoughtful as your indoor one.
👉 Download the free Table Styling Checklist (PDF) on the website
Some inspiration on “How to set the table outside” Now enjoy your breakfast, lunch or dinner!
