Happy Monday folks. Well heck, Dallas is regressing on the Covid-19 situation. ARG! Bars are closed again and restaurants have been ordered to go back to 50% occupancy. Wearing a mask is mandatory and I absolutely do this in public (click here for some cute ones). Seems like a good time to focus on enjoying your backyard and having family meals at home. ‘Tis the season for backyard BBQ’s! Fourth of July is around the corner, so that means summer outdoor entertaining season is officially upon us. This summer we want to remain as safe as possible, so why not entertain outdoors? For starters, read up on my tips for al fresco dining and entertaining here. These tips will assure that you are ready to host outdoors. Today let’s look at some more of my tips and secrets for successful outdoor entertaining, plus my favorite outdoor table decor that is sure to wow your guests.
Entertaining 101 – you need the perfect look for hosting an outdoor event. I love this Cabana Life shift dress because the fabric is UPF 50+, plus it’s cute and summer chic. All of the Cabana Life clothes are UPF 50+ (read more on the brand here), so definitely stock up on chic summer looks. It is so important to protect your skin while entertaining outdoors! I love pairing the dress with these sandals (currently on sale!). To elevate my look I wear a Hermes scarf as a headband. Learn how to tie your scarf and the other ways to wear it here.
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Summer Outdoor Entertaining
Let’s look at some must-have items for your summer outdoor entertaining. Gingham is always a popular summer pattern, which is why I love these napkins. I prefer to use cloth napkins to elevate the dining experience. I definitely recommend these napkin rings. They have a bud vase attached, so you can add a flower like I did with the yellow tulip. My tip is to use fresh flowers for decor so that your table setting doesn’t compete with your garden, but is a continuation of the outdoor scenery. I use this vase because it is hand-crafted and uniquely made, just like the flowers you place in them.
Another item I recommend placing on your table are candles! My tip is to use these citronella votive candles because they not only light up the space once the sun sets, but they are also bug repellent. I use these ceramic candle holders because they are subtle and chic. Another tip is to use items made of polycarbonate. This material looks like glass, but will not break if dropped. Items I use that are made out of this material are this pitcher, these glasses and these Juliska plates. When the grandkids come over, I never worry about broken dishes or glasses!
Want to add a little fun entertainment to the situation? I recommend having some outdoor game options on hand. Shop backyard entertainment items here. To go with your outdoor games, try making this refreshing summer cocktail for your guests. Or just serve some fresh lemonade or fruit spiked water like I did. My water pitcher has fresh sliced lemons and limes in it which infuses the water with flavor. You can also do this with sliced cucumbers. Enjoy!
xoxo – Tanya
P.S. I always buy my flowers one day in advance and make my arrangements, That way the flowers have 24 hours to open up before the event.
Photo: Audrie Dollins
Summer Outdoor Entertaining Source Links
Plates: Juleska
Glasses: Le Cadeaux Fleur
Placemats: Crate and Barrel (similar style to above)
Silverware: Crate and Barrel
Napkins: Williams Sonoma
Napkin Rings: Two’s Company or Deco-Mate
Vase: Vietri
Pitcher: Le Cadeaux Fleur
Candles: Target
Candle Holders: Target
Serving tray: Vietri
Seat cushions: Frontgate
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For outdoors juliska has acrylic glassware, love them, bought at Neimans last year.
I also use melamine plates much lighter don’t worry about breakage on patio. Lots of chic examples, John Derrian, Aerin, etc.
I use a lot of melamine trays as well.
Don’t forget bug spray and citronella for mosquitos.