Setting up an outdoor dinner party can be daunting which is why we created a step by step guide. There are a lot of different types of dinner parties to throw but we found when setting one up for our latest photoshoot we found these our key highlights.

How to Set Up an Outdoor Dinner Party

Step 1: Choose a Location with a nice backdrop.

One of the key attributes for throwing an outdoor dinner party is picking a location that will allow the time you spend setting the table to reflect aesthetically from every point of view. We love setting up tables outdoors and find backdrops such as water, fields, trees, and stone walls beautiful backdrops.

Step 2: Add Table Accessories.

When spending so much time creating dishes for a dinner party it is nice to add table setting accessories that support the dining experience. A few key table accessories we like to use include candles, flowers, unique chairs, colourful tablecloths, and mismatched drink glasses. We find second hand shops are perfect for finding new accessories to dress your table without spending too much money, and being able to create unique table settings for each occasion. 

Step 3: Start bringing plated food to the table.

After prepping food for the dinner party we like to start plating the food and bringing to the table after the table accessories have been added.

Step 4: Finish preparing some dishes at the table for an interactive experience with the guests.

While sometimes finishing food prep at the table is not appropriate we find that when this does suit the prepared meal it adds a special experience for the guests. Whether it is adding garnish, or finishing touches this preparation in front of the guests get them more involved with the overall experience.

Step 5: Fill out the table with extra produce and flowers to add interest.

While we have already added the initial table accessories we find that adding a second round of decoration after some of the plated food is set allows for another look at how best to fit out the table. We love filling the table with extra produce and flowers to create a full but natural table.

Step 6: Set the table with colourful plates.

Of course we wouldn't be a unique homewares brand if we didn't love setting tables with home decor that is colourful and non-traditional. We love our colourful plates for dinner parties. We recommend both mixing plate colours to create a rainbow scattered table or choosing one colour and creating a colour theme for the dinner party.

Step 7: Light the Candles.

While we don't always use candles at our table settings we love when they suit the dinner party theme and find them perfect for dinners that after dark or thrown at sunset. We use both pillar candles or candlesticks. When choosing candlesticks we also look to pair them with candlestick holders we find from second hand shops or vintage finds.

Step back and enjoy what you have created!

More of a visual learner? Watch our tik tok on how to set up an outdoor dinner party here.