How to Style a Beautiful Outdoor Table for Summer Gatherings
These outdoor table decor ideas and tips will set the stage for successful al fresco dining.
These outdoor dining table decor ideas will help you create a space that’s inviting but unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a casual brunch, a summer evening dinner, or a backyard celebration, a thoughtfully styled outdoor table sets the tone for your entire gathering. Just in time for entertaining for the Fourth of July, too!
If you’re wondering how to decorate your outdoor table or looking for fresh table theme ideas, you’re in the right place. For me, a beautiful tablescape is just as important as the meal itself. I always want my table to feel like a gift to my guests—a feast for the eyes before the first bite is ever served!
Outdoor entertaining is one of my favorite parts of spring and summer. And I truly believe that when you take the time to go the extra mile with your decor, you’re sending a heartfelt message that says, “You’re special, and I’m so glad you’re here.”
💡 These outdoor table decor ideas and tips are your ticket to setting the stage for successful al fresco dining. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard BBQ or a themed summer soirée, creating the perfect mood for your guests starts with styling your outdoor dining space just right. From choosing a theme and color scheme to crafting an eye-catching centerpiece, every detail contributes to the overall ambiance. So if you’re wondering how to decorate your outdoor table for your next gathering, look no further!
The table decorations are almost as important to me as the food itself. Just like I want my meal to be a feast for the tummy, I want my table and outdoor area to be a feast for the eyes!
I guess it’s kind of like opening a beautifully wrapped gift – the anticipation of the meal to come makes it that much more pleasurable.
Along those same lines, think about the thrill that dining at a fabulously styled outdoor dining table will give you and your guests!
We’re visiting at my friend Nancy’s house, where a gorgeous turquoise and coral table is set on her stunning remodeled deck.
Decide on a Theme & Color Scheme
To make your table look pretty, start off by finding inspiration, which can come from literally anywhere.
Are you entertaining for a certain holiday or special occasion? Maybe you want to coordinate your table decorations with the surrounding area. Maybe you’re setting a table for July 4th or maybe you just want something fun!
Consider the menu too. Nancy’s inspiration came from her menu. She was serving a seafood feast, so both the accessories and colors reinforce that.
Decorating the table with shells, pieces of coral, and mini crabs reinforces the food that will be served and the turquoise and coral color scheme is reminiscent of the ocean and the natural colors of shrimp, crabs, and lobster.
Let Your Centerpiece Tell a Story
Stuck on what to put in the middle of your outdoor table? The center is usually the focal point, so it’s important to get it right.
Oh, you can go with a traditional table centerpiece that includes flower arrangements and candle holders, but why do that?
One of the most enjoyable parts of styling an outdoor table is making a statement in the middle with your centerpiece. Add those unexpected elements!
The most appealing tablescapes, in fact the most appealing decorating of any kind, always includes a little of the unexpected.
Now don’t get me wrong – when the occasion calls for it, a table set with all white linens and china is gorgeous too, but we’re entertaining in the summer and it’s time to have some fun!
Since the theme for this outdoor table setting is a seafood feast, look at some of the details Nancy added.
The textiles on the table include a table runner consisting of a small striped rug with jute netting, that resembles a fishing net, layered on top of it.
Maybe you aren’t too surprised to see a piece of blue coral on a seafood-inspired table, but I bet you’re surprised to see a cute little crab nestled into it.
Think outside of the box. Napkins rings aren’t necessarily just for napkins. 😀
Floating candles are beautiful when displayed in clear glass vases, but notice how Nancy made them fit in with her theme by adding shells.
TIP: Scatter small items throughout the centerpiece to fill in empty spots.
Mix Traditional, Modern & Playful Elements
Nancy’s table is a good mix of the three. Her dinnerware at each setting consists of traditional solid blue plates, solid white plates, solid napkins, and traditional looking acrylic glasses.
From the fun napkin rings, to the raised dots on the border of the turquoise plates, to the ruffled edge of the coral plates, each place setting exudes a sense of playfulness.
A modern touch is added to the table in the form of the glass cylinders that were used as part of the centerpiece.
Make Sure Your Colors Are Complementary
Turquoise and coral are a great complementary color combo. If you’re unsure of what colors to mix together that will complement one another, use this color wheel to help you.
Generally speaking, complementary color schemes use colors that are opposite from one another on the wheel.
Use Various Heights
Just like with layering, using various heights of the objects on your table adds interest and keeps the eye traveling around the table to take in all of the gorgeous beauty you’ve created.
There’s no better way to add dimension to your outdoor table decor – it’s like giving your setup that extra oomph!
So, how do you do it? Well, it’s all about mixing things up. Stack those plates, top them off with a dessert bowl, and then add a charming napkin on top – voila!
By incorporating both low and high elements in the centerpiece, you create visual interest that’s impossible to ignore.
Stacked dishes, pretty napkins, and sleek stemware at each place setting, perfectly complemented by towering glass cylinders in the center – now that’s what I call eye candy!
By playing around with heights, you not only add depth to your table but also ensure that every corner is bursting with personality.
Let’s face it – in the world of outdoor dining, there’s something truly special about gathering around a beautifully decorated table.
From choosing a theme to selecting colors that speak to your heart, every decision adds to the charm of your outdoor decor.
Imagine your guests’ faces lighting up as they take their seats, greeted by a table that’s been lovingly adorned just for them.
Let these ideas inspire you to create a space that’s as warm and welcoming as the company you keep.
Here’s to good food, great company, and unforgettable moments shared in the great outdoors!
That is a beautiful table setting. However, we don’t do blue and orange at our house. (Just kidding). That’s University of Florida colors and we are Florida State fans! ?
I love your blog and I especially enjoy your posts on Instagram. Love shopping with you. Shopping use to be my favorite activity but because of health issues I don’t get out much anymore. I am very thankful for online shopping. I still love decorating and tablesacaping.
I can totally understand that – I’m a Carolina fan myself! Thank you for your sweet words!
Thank you for your lovely ideas. I would enjoy hearing about how to do this economically as well. Also, I don’t have much storage space so how can you do more with less now that we’ve downsized. Looking forward to learning more.
Hi Barbara. That’s a great idea for a blog post. Thank you!