HOW TO SET AN OUTDOOR PATIO TABLE
Summer is all about outdoor dining.
At our house it takes a few test runs until i get into the groove with the summer patio dining and patio essentials.
I have a few tips below to save money so keep reading!
The first night of outdoor dining involves me running in and out of the back door with the plastic gingham cups, napkins, and condiments- telling myself I will be more organized for the next bbq. Sound familiar?
Even when there forecast for rain, someone suggests we eat outside.
This season I am ready to go when dinner calls for outdoor dining.Â
Even if it is just the two of us .
SUMMER PATIO DINING
I have a love-hate relationship with our patio.
Our patio’s shade is compliments of an Ash tree i that releases pollen dust onto our farmhouse table.
However, those same trees provide shade and hold a canopy of lights for Colorado nights. Our backyard is free of noise and views of parked cars and buildings!
DISHES & DINING ON THE PATIO
Glassware is tricky with our Bernese Mountain dog, Elliott. Our little Berner
rescue is visually impaired and requires a wide turning radius.
At our house, it’s all about our dogs!
How do you entertain with dogs and guests in the backyard?
In an Instagram worthy blog post I bought melamine dishes on sale at Pottery Barn last year.
I have no photos because …
do you know where the best deals for melamine or tin dishes?
Kroger!
Now is the time you will see patio dining essentials on sale in the seasonal aisle at Kroger or your favorite grocery chain or market.
I found the cutest tin plates in the center aisle!
Check your seasonal aisle wherever you shop for groceries.
Hobby Lobby also has great seasonal finds.
HOW TO ORGANIZE A SUMMER PATIO TABLE
- I start with a roll of burlap from a garden center.
- I also use a roll of brown wrapping paper.
- I found a narrower version in the paint department at Home Depot. department or an very casual table runner.
- I add potted lavender and mint. It’s easy and fragrant and a year round staple!
5. I love this echo-friendly placemat! It makes for easy cleanup!
5. I use chargers and cloth napkins for a summer patio.
The chargers make it easy to pack and stack after dinner.
And, the cloth napkins are always appreicated with bbq!
I keep the condiments in a dsignated space in the fridge. When we eat outside I add them to these boxes.
No more running back and forth for three types of mustard.
What is a must have on your summer patio table?
Over the years I have designate a cabinet for outdoor entertaining essentials. It makes it easier because outdoor dining is almost always a last -minute decision.
Hi Laura
We hosted a wonderful barbecue for Father’s Day and it was fun to relax outside, but sadly the air quality has been bad since, because of all the Colorado wildfires this summer. I feel sad that we can’t enjoy being outside because of that. I usually use paper or heavier cardboard disposable plates for convuenience, but I do have a small collection of prettier melamine plates if it is just the two of us. I’ll have to look at Kroger for outdoor supplies–good tip!