Alfresco Dining…Autumn Style!

Alfresco dining is one of my favorite things to do!  Any time of year is ok with me…but early fall is my top pick overall.   The weather is comfortable and the changing garden makes a beautiful backdrop for a casual table to gather around!  A blend of late summer and the approaching new season is a perfect combo of color and texture for creating a warm & cozy vibe.  Today I’d love to share some inspiration for outdoor dining with hints of fall.  Summer might be winding down but there’s still time to soak up outdoor time…

around an autumn table!

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soft fall color & simple details will give your guests all the relaxed, cozy feels!

you can make a simple table look bountiful by displaying bowls of fruits & nuts on either end…

a few fresh herbs fill the gaps and just look pretty!

it’s an economical way to decorate AND guests can nibble on them too!

aged copper pots blended beautifully with rustic wood bowls.  a lovely way to add pretty patina to the table…

decor tip:

don’t be afraid to find alternative containers for serving food or making centerpieces.  pretty bake ware, casserole dishes, and colanders make beautiful “bowls” to hold food, candles, or flowers!  using items like these will make your table unique and save you money by reusing what you have!

on the opposite end is more fruit and a basket of bread…

an assortment of rustic loaves and crusty rolls help to fill the long farm table and is at easy reach!

party tip:

when serving whole, crusty loaves, keep a cutting board and knife nearby to slice up the warm bread.  i use my outdoor sideboard to hold extra supplies but you could display the bread right on a cutting board as an option or slice it ahead of time. 

alfresco dining details

you don’t need fancy supplies to create an attractive, alfresco table…merely being outside does half the work for you!

but pretty linens add elegance with no fuss!  the napkins are casually cinched with ribbons and elements from outside…

a few leaves are effortlessly clipped to the ribbon…a fitting detail for an alfresco meal!

you could use faux leaves too, but since the real deal are pretty plentiful, i think they add lovely, natural texture!

speaking of natural, wood plates were fun for this fall setup!  you can find an assortment of look-alike melamine choices out there that are easy to maintain!

the water and wine glasses are placed on paper napkins.  even if you’re using linens, it’s nice to have an alternative way to wipe messy fingers or catch condensation from drink ware…plus they look pretty!

and as the sunlight fades, candles will always be enchanting!  gather mismatched votive holders to scatter about to give the table a soft glow!

the smallest and most inexpensive details can really look pretty!

so gather your people around an outdoor table…

for a fun-filled evening…

alfresco in early autumn!

pin for later~

product guide~

Solino Home:  tablecloth and napkins

Amazon:  similar wood plates