Outdoor Entertaining Essentials
Whether it's a leisurely breakfast, an impromptu lunch, or a formal dinner party, summer makes dining al fresco infinitely enjoyable. Spruce up your backyard or patio with these 12 picks for perfect outdoor dining.
Metal Utensil Caddy
Ditching the elaborate place settings means more time in the kitchen and a more organic dinner party. Let company pick and choose by tossing utensils in this metallic caddy, a sleek and durable variation on standard plastic caddies. InterDesign Cutlery Caddy, $17.99 at Amazon.com
Greendale Square Floor Pillow
These waterproof, stain resistant floor pillows are perfect for outdoors–you can transform uncomfortable outdoor furniture or create an impromptu gathering on the ground. Greendale Home Fashions Square Floor Pillow, $40.78 at Amazon.com
Windowsill Kitchen Herbs
Used as a centerpiece, this herb kit becomes a source of flavor for guests around the table. Buzzy Garden Kitchen Herbs, $16.69 at Amazon.com
LED Globe Lights
Soft string lights add a warm glow to outdoor entertaining. Because these lights are LED, bugs aren’t attracted to the bulbs and you can enjoy your meal in a peaceful atmosphere. Martha Stewart delivers a how-to to display your lights outside. Neo LED Warm White Globe Lights, $9.59 at Amazon.com
Organic Cotton Napkins
Cotton napkins dress-up an outdoor table and cut down on waste. These napkins are made from soft, pre-washed organic fabric and get softer with each washing. Amenity Organic Cotton Napkins, $50 at Amazon.com
Le Cadeaux Drinkware
Don’t worry about breaking these cups–the light-weight, polycarbonate material is nearly unbreakable, yet maintains a fun, glossy finish. Le Cadeaux Break Resistant Serving Set, $85.99 at Amazon.com
Thomas Paul Dishes
Nautical yet modern, these melamine plates feature white marine images on a deep blue background–great for outdoor decor. Thomas Paul Scrimshaw Dinner Plates, $44 at Amazon.com
Spillproof Tablecloth
Add the perfect touch of elegance to your tabletop with this spill-proof, stain resistant tablecloth. Matching placemats top off the stylish design. Benson Mills Print Tablecloth, $11.99 at Amazon.com
notNeutral Trays
These melamine trays turn two hands into eight as numerous glasses or several dishes can easily be transported from indoors out. notNeutral Melamine Trays, $18 at Design Public
Bronzed Beverage Tub
Keep the party outside while making sure your guests are well refreshed with this beverage tub. Don’t let the bronzed finish fool you–it’s made of steel so it won’t rust. HomeWetBar Bronzed Vine Beverage Tub, $39.95 at Amazon.com
Bamboo Utensils
These bamboo utensils are reusable like your traditional metal set but lack the bulk. Slender and lightweight, these delicate utensils are perfect for summer feasting. ThinkBamboo Narrow Handle Flatware Set, $17.88 at Amazon.com
Keep Reading
Continue to Next Story
