5 Key Elements To Dining Al Fresco

There is something about Dining Al Fresco that makes the evening even so much more enjoyable.  I love the ambience of friends and family gathered around a beautiful table outside or when my husband and I dine out on our patio, it's just so romantic, comfy and cozy.

There are some key elements to making this experience fabulous for you and your guests.

Make it Cozy

Decorate the outside just like you would your dining room.  Use textiles and lots of texture.  Have a rug under the table, throw pillows on the chairs, poufs and floor cushions for the little ones. Some blankets and throws draped around the chairs will make the room warm and inviting.

Use color

We are outside with nature and all its wonders!  Incorporate lots of color in your textiles and remember the impact of a colorful table runner, pretty place mats & fun plates and tumblers.

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Use ambience lighting

Gorgeous tea lights on the table, beautiful lights hanging above it and lanterns all around make it such an intimate space.  Just picture all the wonderful conversations you'll have in such a setting.

Bring more of nature to the table

Gorgeous flowers and mini succulents can just upgrade your table from blah to ahhmazing!

Include your surroundings

Have a nap worthy hammock hanging from a tree or on a stand, either way it is inviting! Perfect for pre or post dinner for your guests to spread around and enjoy themselves cocktail in hand of course!  Have a grouping of little stools around that marvelous fire pit perfect for Smore's time. A trellis and hanging terrariums can be placed just about anywhere close by to add to the nature vibe.  Add the element of water to your evening with a sweet wall fountain.  There's something about the sound of trickling water that is so soothing.

Of course the food but that is so simple, it could be appetizers, a simple meal or even take out!  It's the company and style that makes the evening.

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I hope this inspires you to move your dinner parties outside, even if it's just you and your significant other, and incorporate all these elements for a fabulous evening.

Buen Provecho!

Are you feeling inspired for an Al fresco dinner? Tell us in the comments.

Photo: Style Files, Inspire Believe,  AD, Bored Art, Dicorcia,  Oberto Gili,  Kukuiula