Regardless of lockdowns and social distancing, whenever temperatures heat up we always turn to dining outside. While there are a zillion ways to set a table, there are some tips and tricks on how to do it stylishly and like a pro. A few little tweaks to your outdoor dining table can take it from basic to beautiful in no time.
See also: #ProTips: An Entertaining Expert’s Guide to the Perfect Charcuterie Board >>>
Here are 5 tips to set up the perfect outdoor dining table
Update Your Linens
Perhaps the easiest update you could make to your outdoor dining table is updating your linens. Switch up your table cloth, napkins, and placemats by upgrading them to ones that are high-quality and luxe. These ones from Maison Tess’s brand new tableware line are absolutely stunning and are sustainable which just adds to their magic. Curious to know more about the new collection? Keep reading to meet the brand’s founder and Creative Director Laura Nezri Chetrit!
Put Together A Centrepiece
These days a centrepiece is so much more than the ones we remember from weddings of the ’80s. Let your imagination run wild and go for a dried flower arrangement but don’t be afraid to go all out add a string of twinkle lights especially if it’s an al fresco dinner moment.
A Few Candles Go A Long Way
Lit candles on the dining table might seem like something out of Lady and the Tramp but when done properly, it really is lovely and adds such a beautiful ambiance. Tall tapered candles, placed perfectly imperfectly down the centre of the table are such a simple addition but do so much. If you aren’t feeling the romantic vibe, you can leave them unlit but you’ll still get the same effect.
Cheers To Gorgeous Glasses
Of course, you can use your everyday drinking glasses on your outdoor dining table but having a set of glasses for special occasions is always a good idea. Opt for ones that are timeless but always stylish and you’ll always have an on-trend table.
Put Down A Rug
If you don’t have an inspiring-looking outdoor dining space, a great idea to make it a bit nicer is to lay down a nice rug. Of course, ensure that it’s suited to the outdoors and is easily cleaned because odds are your guests will be wearing shoes and might spill a glass of red.
See below for Maison Tess founder & Creative Director Laura’s insight on the brand’s first tableware collection and her tips on setting up the perfect outdoor dining table.
WE: The tableware collection is stunning! How did you approach the design of the collection?
Laura: Our aim is to mix function and fashion. We went for seasonless tones in the tablecloths and added a punch of colour for accessory pieces like placemats and napkins. We wanted to showcase a decor that was inviting and luxurious.
WE: It’s all so perfect for outdoor dining which is looking like it’ll be trending again this summer. Do you have any outdoor table setting tips you can share?
Laura: Definitely do not be afraid to mix colours! We are all in need of getting together in small groups and enjoying life’s basic treats- such as a meal with friends. Colours set the tone for a good time no matter the occasion!
WE: I’m sure it’ll be hard to choose but do you have a favourite colourway from the new collection?
Laura: I’m never set on 1 colour. It’s the combination and the contrasts of all three colours per collection that really does it for me.
WE: Why is it so important to Maison Tess to use OEKO-TEX certified fabrics?
Laura: It is our responsibility as young brands to promote environmental and socially conscious products. This certification really focuses on the environment in that the dyes used are not only cruelty-free but are also non-harmful for the environment and the people using them in production. ,
WE: The collection is inspired by travel and escapism – where are you dreaming of travelling to once COVID is behind us?
Laura: I’m a big Paris fan, I lived there a few years, and met my husband there. It really embodies so much inspiration in such an effortless way.
