Outdoor dining, en plein air, al fresco…no matter what you call it, eating outdoors is a must every summer and there is no right or wrong way to go about it. My mother was the queen of outdoor dining, preferring to take most of our family meals outdoors, and she had a knack at making even the smallest occasion special. I grew up eating this way, and have learned a few tricks of my own to share.
The real trick is to not overthink it. There is a certain casual elegance to the European tradition of dining al fresco which makes this approachable. Whether you are planning a large gathering in the garden for a special occasion, or an impromptu meal with your family, the true measure of success is not in the finely pressed linens and high-stress presentation, but rather in the little things…the beauty “in between”.
The freshly picked bouquets, the wrinkled linens, the chipped antique platter…dripping wax and wine stains ALL play a pivotal role.
Tricks to making it extra special:
Simplicity I like to keep a small dining caddy handy to store my cutlery, napkins, salt and pepper mills, wine coasters and anything else you may want. A quick wipe of the table so I can lay my linen runner down, top with a vase of flowers and glass lanterns, and voila! The rest is easy! I will often have my family and guests alike fill their plates indoors and carry them to the table to lessen the clutter.
Quality Set those paper napkins aside and reach for the linen! There is something so special about the weight and quality of linen across your lap that makes any meal feel special (and, paper napkins blow away with the slightest wind!).
Authenticity Candles, candles, candles! Candlelight is essential. Battery operated candles are great, but honestly…real candle light is SPECIAL, and makes the occasion more authentic. I like to use lanterns to protect the flames from any breeze, and create a special ambiance. In the early evening, the candlelight draws you in (and everyone looks great in candle light!).
No plastic Pull out the real dishes and cutlery. Paper plates and plastic cups may have their place at times, but using your real stuff makes it feel important. Our French stemware have a nice weight to them, making them less “tippy” (AND they might trick you into thinking you are dining in the south of France!).
Comfort Offer a cozy throw for those chilly summer evenings. Wrap one of our Tartan Blankets around your shoulders to take the chill off. Our “knee blankets” are smaller and work perfectly as a shoulder wrap or across your knees. (And they are machine washable!)
Remember, it is the company you keep, and the restorative benefit of the outdoors that matter most.
Enjoy every moment!
