Good weather, good food, and a great outdoor dining table—the perfect recipe for memorable gatherings. What's the difference between a casual brunch, a small dinner, or a large celebratory dinner? Being present to share experiences. There is something about making an effort in setting your outdoor dining table—this alone can transform the experience. The tiny extra touches that you thoughtfully curate can elevate everything, as can the style of your outdoor dining set. This could mean both indoor and outdoor are possible, to use as a charcoal or gas-finished preparation for meals, or to have them done.
At Be A Little, we're committed to providing outdoor dining tables that capture beautiful materials and designs while also being durable and functional. Our Ara dining table has a neat design, while our Gera dining table has an earthy character to it; both are the frameworks of togetherness if you leave enough space to do other things. Here we provide our best tips for setting up your outdoor dining table to "wow your guests and take the effort out of entertaining.
1. Choose the Right Table for the Occasion
Your table is the essential piece of your outdoor setting, and each of our tables offers something special.
The Ara dining table comes in both a fixed and extended table feature, presenting a contemporary and versatile addition to any outdoor space. With rounded edges, a solid teak tabletop, and a steel frame (either powder coated or stainless), it allows you to comfortably engage with guests when dining alfresco.
The Lego table serves as a sculptural base for its personality and has interchangeable tops made from either teak or sintered stone. A perfect blend of sophistication and practicality.
The Vinegard dining table, with its soft, curved form, adds an inviting and gentle presence to your outdoor setting.
The Clio dining table, with its slimline table form and versatile dimensions, allows you to entertain guests in smaller spaces.
The Gera dining table, offering a refined profile and subtle rounded edges, presents a softer aesthetic to the contemporary alfresco areas.
It is worthwhile considering not just the number of guests you typically host, but the area you are working with, as well as whether your entire table is outside all year.
2. Add Layered Textures
Texture is everything when creating a welcoming table. Begin with a placemat or linen table runner to set the stage. They also introduce visually comforting surface warmth and soften the hard edge of timber or ceramic tabletops.
For timber tables like the Lego table, the teak top, or the Vinegard dining table, neutral tones like off-white, ecru, or soft stone will work well and enhance and complement the natural grain of the timber. If you are working with sintered stone or stainless steel, consider adding warmth with woven elements or earthy ceramics.
3. Mix and Match Dining Chairs for Contrast
Selecting the right dining chairs will finalize the look of your table and add comfort.
For instance:
The Ara dining table looks smart paired with the Manhattan alu dining chair for a sleek modern silhouette or the Oscar dining chair for a textural contrast paired with its rope detailing and teak frame.
The round Gera dining table is a good fit with the curved form of the Vento dining chair, complementing both comfort and softness.
The Clio dining table shines with lightweight options, such as the Alpha dining chair and Manhattan Alu dining chair, keeping the space feeling light and airy.
Use a common color palette across the chairs and table for coherence, but don’t be afraid to mix materials for depth.
4. Incorporate Centrepieces with Purpose
Dining outside should be easygoing, and you want your centerpieces to add to the experience without (literally!) filling up too much space. A low bowl of citrus fruit, a vase of seasonal natives, and a grouping of pillar candles in hurricane lanterns will all enhance the dining experience without detracting from it.
If you have a large table like the LEGO table 240, consider an elongated centerpiece to help fill the space. Alternatively, if using a smaller table like the Clio or Gera, use a smaller bundle on the side, which can help with guests having space for their dishes and drinks.
5. Use Ambient Lighting
Using the right lighting can create an incredible experience for outdoor dining. If you're eating at dusk or after dark, lanterns, fairy lights, or overhead string lights are good options for warmth and ambiance.
Candles are another good option. Select unscented candles to be sure that you don’t overpower the smell of your food. Place them in clusters of varying heights for a cozy, layered glow.
6. Consider Tableware That Can Withstand the Elements
Outdoor dining is a good opportunity to have tableware that is functional and stylish. Melamine or enamel plates, unbreakable drinkware, natural fiber napkins, etc., can all have great function and style.
Mixing materials like timber serving boards, ceramic serving bowls, and metal cutlery works!
The layered and broken-in feel of mixing makes it look less formal and more usable. And it feels inviting. Avoid anything too fragile if you have kids or on a windy day.
7. Be Ready for All Weather
Weather can change quickly—even with the perfect setup. So make sure you have a few throws or cushions for cooler nights and a nearby umbrella or shade sail for daytime lunches!
If you have a timber table, like a vineyard dining table or a Gera dining table, you can rest easy knowing that its natural teak will easily withstand the elements—no covers needed. They will age and weather naturally and with grace, and they can remain outside all year round. Just a quick brush down is usually all that's needed before using the tables again.
8. Create Zones for Movement and Mingling
When entertaining larger groups, think past just the table! Create a drink station, grazing platter, or side table nearby, allowing your guests freedom of movement. You will create a flow around the table and relax the space.
If you have the option of placing your table near your kitchen or BBQ area, do so! You want outdoor dining to feel casual and laid-back, not uptight and formal.
Final Thoughts
An elegantly set outdoor dining table sets an ideal backdrop for gathering, celebrating, and connecting. Superiorly designed tables like the Ara dining table, Lego table, Vinegard dining table, Gera dining table, and Clio dining table make it possible to have outdoor dining that is functional and sophisticated. Add layers of textures, ambient lighting, and curated seating, and you'll be ready to host effortlessly all season long.
Need to complete your setting? Contact us at Be A Little, and let us assist you in talking through the ideal chairs and styling touches to make your outdoor space uniquely yours.
