Alfresco Dining with a Touch of Pizzazz

Friday, July 3rd, 2009 at 3:33 pm

Table Setting 2

As summer continues and the weather starts to turn warmer, it is an appropriate time to start planning your future outdoor parties. Keep in mind different ways to celebrate the outdoors by adding small fresh flower bouquets or miniature plants in low vases across the table to give the illusion of a large arrangement. Utilize tall tapered candles to illuminate the dining table, eating by candlelight creates a gentle and romantic setting.

Table Setting

While dressing the table add a sprig of rosemary, lavender or mint to the napkin rings to add a touch of nature. For a dressed up table setting use ivory cloth placemats, topped by beautiful glassware, stemware and china, preferably antique or traditional in spirit. Add some vintage flatware for a complete look.  If you are planning a more relaxed get together, try mixing and matching different color glasses, ceramic dishes and fun silverware to create a playful atmosphere. Use multi colored placemats, napkins and chunky pillar candles.

Rosemary Sprig

Determine your seating arrangement then use hand-scripted place cards to caringly identify each setting. Another special touch that you can add to the table is a host gift on each plate. A miniature box of chocolates is a wonderful treat.

Pizzazz Table

Remember to consider setting the scene with preset background music, so that you can enjoy the party when your guests arrive. Try to work hard before the party starts so that you can enjoy being a guest at your own party.

All of these special touches and creative tips will be instrumental in helping to make your party a memorable event that both you and your guests will cherish.

Outdoor Placemats

These same simple tips can be applied to entertaining with style indoors by honoring the outdoors. Reunite your friends and family with you in a fun and relaxed environment.

Outdoor Table Setting


  • http://www.creativehomeexpressions.com/ Kathy @ Creative Home Expressi

    Hi Marcia ~ Great tips! One year I bought small terracotta pots and put the forks, knives and spoons in them (use side up) and sometimes I use the pot dish for pillar candles on tables.

  • http://www.creativehomeexpressions.com Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions

    Hi Marcia ~ Great tips! One year I bought small terracotta pots and put the forks, knives and spoons in them (use side up) and sometimes I use the pot dish for pillar candles on tables.

  • http://cablecarcouture.com/ Cable Car Couture

    These are gorgeous photos and tips! Looks like something right out of a Real Simple or Martha Stewart mag!

  • http://cablecarcouture.com Cable Car Couture

    These are gorgeous photos and tips! Looks like something right out of a Real Simple or Martha Stewart mag!

  • http://www.diningfurniturewarehouse.com/ Dining Room Furniture

    Awesome dining table.

  • http://www.largepot.net/large-pot/canning-start-up-costs/ large pot sale

    Oh!…that’s great helpful, it’s so right to me! Million thanks for the article,

  • http://www.largepot.net Large Pot

    This is the great blog, I’m reading them for a while,
    thanks for the new posts!

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