Dining Alfresco

Only a few weeks away, summer is all about spending time outside. Sunshine, blue skies and warm weather mean garden parties, picnics at the park, backyard barbeques and drinks on the porch. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast for two or hosting a full-fledged party, planning an elegant and sophisticated affair or something more laidback and casual, dining alfresco is a summer must. It is a great way to meet the neighbors or get together with friends and family. Start making some plans, soak up some sun, and enjoy a little fresh air. We’ve rounded up a few ideas to inspire your summer.

| Posted: 21 May, 2012 by Christy

1-10 of 10

• Garden Gnome Shaker Set

  

  Not just for your garden, gnomes bring a little kitsch to your outdoor table. This porcelain shaker set is perfect for salt and pepper with a dash of whimsy.

  $9 at House 8810 | Buy

  

  | Posted 25 May, 2012 by Christy

• Marin Blue Dinnerware

  

  Outdoor dining doesn’t require paper plates and plastic cutlery. Set the table in soft sky blue. Just add coffee and your favorite breakfast for an absolutely serene spring morning.

  $115 at Crate and Barrel | Buy

  

  | Posted 25 May, 2012 by Christy

• Gingham Check Napkins

  

  Opt for cloth instead of paper napkins for your next warm weather gathering. Gingham adds instant picnic style to your outdoor table. Mix it up with red and blue for a patriotic twist.

  $33 at Pottery Barn | Buy

  (Set of 6)

  

  | Posted 24 May, 2012 by Christy

• Authentic Bocce Ball Set

  

  Kick off your first annual summertime bocce ball tourney with this authentic set made in Italy, where they know a thing or two about bocce. Or, just encourage some friendly competition at your next backyard barbeque.

  $155 at The Wildflower Seed & Tool Company | Buy

  

  | Posted 24 May, 2012 by Christy

• Thomas Paul Portland Dinner Plate

  

  Be prepared for summer block parties with this set of nature-inspired and nature- friendly outdoor dinnerware. The best part? No broken dishes when an impromptu football game sends a stray ball in your direction.

  $44 at All Modern | Buy

  

  | Posted 23 May, 2012 by Christy

• Solar Powered Radio

  

  Whether you’re dining in the backyard or on a full-fledged picnic, you’ll need some tunes. This radio is powered by the sun, making it perfect for outdoor festivities of all sorts.

  $35 at Brook Farm General Store | Buy

  

  | Posted 23 May, 2012 by Christy

• Paddle Salad Servers

  

  For generous servings of leafy spinach or romaine, ordinary salad servers just won’t do. Use these mango wood paddles to scoop up refreshing salad greens with panache. Bonus points are awarded if you’ve grown your own ingredients.

  $24 at Anthropologie | Buy

  

  | Posted 22 May, 2012 by Christy

• Porch Parties

  

  If you’re in need of some outdoor inspiration, look no further. From cocktails to canapés, Denise Gee’s guide is filled with photographs and recipes for planning your next porch party. Now, will you be serving Tipsy Tea or June Bug Mocktails?

  $17 at Chronicle Books | Buy

  

  | Posted 22 May, 2012 by Christy

• Recycled Glass Lanterns

  

  When that afternoon garden party inevitably continues past sunset, these recycled glass lanterns turn dining at night into a festive evening gathering.

  $7 at West Elm | Buy

  ($20 for Set of 3)

  

  | Posted 21 May, 2012 by Christy

• Yellowstone Picnic Basket

  

  Add style to the quintessential summer outing with the Yellowstone Picnic Basket. Fully equipped with the basics, just add food, invite a few friends and head outdoors.

  $110 at Target | Buy

  

  | Posted 21 May, 2012 by Christy