Signature Editions | Outdoor Dining

Signature Editions | Outdoor Dining

It’s never too late to plan that summer soiree or reschedule that family get together. Maria offers her expert advice on entertaining al fresco and creating the perfect summer tablescape at home. 

Set the Scene

Dress your outdoor dining area with the same consideration that you would approach a dinner party in your home. Arrange planters and colourful blooms in pots near the dining space. Cover the area with a parasol – fringed parasols are very popular and fashionable at present.  

Drinks Station

Set up a simple drinks station outside with lots of ice available for drinks. It prevents running in an out of the house. Use large ice buckets to keep drinks chilled. Prep fruit for drinks in advance – your guests will be impressed. If you have access to a power point in your outdoor dining space a small refrigerator is a great investment.  

Signature Editions | Outdoor Dining

Comfortable Seating  

While dining al fresco ensure guests are seated comfortably – soften outdoor furniture by adding cushions to seats of chairs, throws on the backs of chairs so as the sun goes down guests can pop the throw on their knees and not experience the chill.  

The Playlist  

Our Summer collections are named after places we love to visit – create a playlist that creates memories of sitting by the Mediterranean coast on a sun bleached restaurant terrace .

Signature Editions | Outdoor Dining

Glassware  

Coloured glassware is very much en vogue at the moment and is perfect for a summer tablescape. I love the combination of coloured and eclectic glassware against white crisp linen. It adds a lightness to the table and reduces formality. We are finding that many of our clients opt for this when entertaining at home in summer. Leave glasses upturned until guests are about to be seated to prevent flies invading them!  

Finish Touches

I like to use a simple napkin ring for Summer such as our weaved rattan or acacia wood napkin rings. For casual dining I often write a very simple menu and place in the centre of the table upright against a jug. Painting a border on the card in a bright colour can make it extra special.