10 Amazing Outdoor Tablescapes to Make You the Best Host Ever

Summer is almost here. The days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer and kids are getting itchy for summer break. If you have an outdoor space, you’re probably starting to think about all the parties you’re going to host. You’re pulling out all your salad recipes and spending hours on Pinterest searching for the perfect Summer 2016 cocktail. With all those details, it can be hard to finally decorate for your shindig when the day arrives. But there are lots of amazing outdoor tablescapes that are simple to recreate and definitely Instagram worthy. Check out these 10 tablescapes for your party and you’ll be the best summer host ever.

Location dinner party

Before you start setting your table, make sure your location is a good one. Maybe your deck took a beating during the winter and isn’t very pretty at the moment. If your backyard is a little shabby, ask a friend if you can use hers to host your shindig. Don’t underestimate what a good view will do. (via @local_milk)

Long outdoor table

Just because your table on the deck only seats four doesn’t mean you’re stuck inviting only two people to your party. Use scrap wood to create a long table in your backyard that will seat as many people as you want. Put it together close to the ground and have guests sit on blankets and pillows so you don’t even have to worry about chairs. (via Harper’s Bazaar)

Simple table runner

If you’re hosting for the biggest summer party of the year, like a wedding or a family reunion, flowers are probably out of the question when it comes to centerpieces. Instead, use greenery to make a simple runner down the whole length of that long table. You’ll be surprise how such a simple touch can make a table feel so finished. (via Thirsty)

Outdoor table linens

Don’t forget your linens! Outdoor dinner parties deserve tablecloths and napkins too. You can invest in some special outdoor linens for the occasion or just use the indoor ones you already have. Either way, they’ll spruce up your table real fast. (via Makenna Alyse)

Processed with VSCOcam with a6 preset

Same goes for candles. If they can go indoors, they can go outdoors too. While you still need other light for your outdoor dinner party, candles will continue to add that intimate feel and make your table feel extra romantic. (via Mel Denisse)

Food table centerpiece

Go ahead. Use food as the centerpiece. If you’re hosting a large gathering, put groupings of bread and veggies down your long table. This will save your guests from passing dishes up and down the table all night long. (via @sweetgreen)

Fresh flower centerpiece

For more intimate gatherings, flowers are called for. But instead of using a chunk of your hosting budget on store bought blooms, cut your own from your garden or borrow some from a friend to create your own flowery display. (via Tessa Barton)

Printable menus

For the host who considers multiple courses a must, consider printing out a menu. You can use a rock to anchor it to the plates or even fold it inside the napkins. It will help your guests to know where your meal is going to go next. (via Inspired By This)

Outdoor dessert

Concerned about holding an entire five course meal outdoors? Have your main course in your dining room and then move your guests outside for dessert. The balmy summer air and a glass of wine is exactly how you should end the night. (via Macadameia)

All season outdoor party

If you’re a person who loves outdoor dinner parties so much that you hold them every weekend during the summer months, don’t limit yourself to summer. Start hosting those dinner parties right now and continue through Thanksgiving or as long as the weather allows. You’ll enjoy each one and so will your friends. (via Offbeat and Inspired)