As the temperatures rise, being outdoors and catching up with loved ones has become top priority again. With the extended daylight, we can prolong our outdoor activities and enjoy them well into those long summer nights.
No matter what your backyard or garden setup looks like, there’s likely a table at its center. However, if the garden décor has been overlooked during the colder season, you can refresh the area with some easy touches.
summer table decor ideas
Is essential for restoring its beauty. Pair this with top-notch outdoor table lighting ideas, and you can effortlessly transition any area from day to night.
We sought input from outdoor lighting specialists and designers to learn about their preferred options.
garden lighting ideas
, outdoor dining table ideas, and design tricks that guarantee an elegant area, along with all the purchasable items needed for it.
1. Stick to simplicity using traditional candles along with elegant glassware.
When it comes to simple yet enchanting outdoor table lighting options, candles are difficult to surpass. Nothing compares to the warm, dancing light of candle flames for setting an atmospheric ambiance during evening gatherings outside.
Most homes typically keep a readily available stock of standard white candles or small nightlights. When combined with various decorative items like glass candle holders, votive cups, jars, and lanterns, arranging these in large clusters down a dinner table creates a striking visual effect, resulting in elegant ambiance.
outdoor dining idea
that requires minimal effort.
‘Candlelight creates a enchanting atmosphere in the garden; however, except in well-protected areas, it’s preferable to use pillar candles.’
Hurricane vases
“So they remain safeguarded, and include some night lights placed inside glass lanterns,” explains Susie Watson, who founded the brand.
Susie Watson Designs
‘It’s enjoyable to utilize an assortment of uniquely shaped vessels so that the candle flames sit at varying heights. This setup allows for beautiful reflections on the glass, which contributes to a truly enchanting and mystical ambiance.’
‘Extra-long dinner candles might appear stunning outdoors, yet they tend to extinguish quickly due to the breeze. It’s best to use them only in spots well-protected from the wind.’
Wavy effect
This large lantern features an attractive ripple effect on its glass surface.
Etched
Crafted from etched glass, you can place several of these around your outdoor dining area to keep candles lit even when there’s wind.
Sparkly
Purchase budget-friendly vintage-style glass candle holders in large quantities to stock up for your tablescape needs. These glasses will scatter the light, producing a sparkling ambiance.
2. Include Wow effects using floating lanterns
Organizing an outdoor summer event demands a more extravagant decorative approach compared to regular meals, providing a great chance to experiment with innovative exterior table illumination concepts.
‘For an unforgettable
garden party decoration idea
“Consider suspending a variety of colorful outdoor solar lanterns over your dining table,” suggests Thalia Shaw, founder.
Sparkle Lighting
‘Hanging suspended at the center over the tabletop, they will produce a enchanting effect as the lanterns’ jeweled hues and elaborate perforated designs cast shadows and illuminate the surrounding space.’
Although ceiling setups such as these appear impressive, they also serve a functional purpose by keeping the table surface clear, providing extra room for placing food, beverages, and serving dishes. Additionally, employing solar lights eliminates the necessity for messy cords and wires.
‘Adding illumination to your outdoor tables is crucial for establishing a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in your garden, patio, or pergola,’ says Thalia. ‘Illuminating the table truly establishes the mood for an ideal evening, and incorporating various forms of light—such as solar-powered hanging lanterns, overhead twinkle lights, and portable tabletop lamps—can turn your outdoor eating space into a enchanting night haven.’
Eastern look
Infuse your exterior setting with a Moroccan ambiance through this perforated metal design, casting intricate shadows over your eating zone.
Modern take
This lantern can either be hung above a table area or is robust enough to place on the floor, and since it’s battery-operated, you won’t have to deal with any cords.
Magical feel
This charming handwoven lantern exudes a rustic vibe and looks fantastic as a standalone piece or arranged together with others. Adorn it with naturally gathered blooms and foliage for an effortlessly natural appearance.
3. Create a straightforward outdoor chandelier
If you’re looking for a sleek and stylish option for your tabletop decor, consider crafting an outdoor chandelier using simple supplies along with some affordable glass solar-hanging bulbs. When hung over a dining table or an outdoor buffet, this creation will lend a delightful touch to your space.
‘An outdoor chandelier is a fantastic means of adding ambiance to open-air dining settings during the warmer seasons,’ according to Lucy Kirk.
Lights4fun
“And making this do-it-yourself chandelier is incredibly easy. It’s created using materials with a rustic aesthetic.”
bamboo hoops
And with lengths of fishing line adorned with intricate micro lights along with hanging solar lamps, the final outcome is mesmerizing.’
To construct the chandelier, utilize two bamboo hoops of comparable dimensions. Secure these hoops together with segments of fishing line and incorporate four additional pieces to the top hoop for hanging purposes. Next, affix a configuration of solar lights onto the bottom hoop (using further wire), ensuring you vary their heights slightly to achieve a casual look. Once done, admire how it glistens once darkness falls!
multi pack
Purchase as a set and attach them to the branches of a tree to fill in any darker sections.
MINI JARS
Small mason-style jars appear charming when suspended at varying heights.
HANDY HOOKS
Drape them separately or gather them into clusters hanging above a table.
4. Dare to make vibrant color selections
‘The key to an impressive outdoor table setting is all about the little things,’ according to Jo Plant, who leads the design team.
Pooky
Choose playful rechargeable options
table lamps
— entirely portable and wonderfully adjustable — these lights create the perfect ambiance, whether you’re preparing for a twilight meal or dancing beneath the sky. Additionally, there’s no need to fret over tangled cords or breezes disturbing them.
To create a stunning table setting, coordinate your lampshade with your theme, be it light summery hues, vibrant Mediterranean blues, or timeless black-and-white tones. Add depth with textured fabrics, elegant glassware, and a few sprigs of freshly picked flowers for an effortlessly chic look that seems casually put together.
Multi brights
These colorful bobbin-inspired rechargeable lights are available in five vibrant hues.
Designer collab
Combine different shades and bases using these cordless table lamps crafted by Bob and Cortney Novogratz for Pooky.
shroom style
Battery-powered, adjustable brightness with a touch sensor for convenient use
5. Make it portable
Designer
Tom Raffield
agrees that the portable
garden lighting trend
is a victor: ‘A significant advantage of mobile lighting is its ability to enhance ordinary instances, providing an ornamental element and gentle radiance where needed most. During the warmer seasons, the adaptability of these lights really comes into its own,’ he notes.
‘A striking centerpiece for your tabletop setting, opt to place a single lamp on a petite bistro table or incorporate multiple lamps along an elongated dining table. This addition brings dimension, tactile interest, and functional soft lighting at a lower level, guaranteeing that your guests benefit from the perfect illumination to converse and savor their meals in a cozy atmosphere.’
Designer
A timeless design featuring steam-bent wooden curves—it serves as an excellent centerpiece for an outdoor dining table.
Modern
This multi-purpose table lamp is suitable for both indoors and outdoors, available in white or sand colors, and you have the option to include a seagrass shade for a cozier, rustic appearance.
On-trend
Crafted from fashionable rattan, these LED lanterns are built to withstand the elements and can either hang overhead or sit atop a table.
6. Establish a lighting structure around your table
Increasing the vertical dimension of your outdoor table setup is essential if you aim to craft a striking visual display. However, getting the lighting just right can often pose difficulties when arranging an outside eating area. Securing light fixtures can be difficult without nearby trees or a pergola to attach them to, and managing wires or power connections adds complexity and yet another element to consider.
pre-summer outdoor lighting checklist
.
For a simple solution, think about getting an over-the-counter option.
decorating rod
This option easily attaches to the table edge and can be adorned with outdoor fairy lights, suspended lanterns, and greenery, all color-coordinated and arranged to enhance your dinner party’s theme. This setup will produce an impressive outdoor table focal point while leaving ample room in the middle of the table for food platters or flower displays.
‘Battery-operated, solar-powered, and USB-chargable lights offer great versatility and easy installation, particularly in areas where power outlets aren’t available,’ says Thalia. ‘Opt for models designed to withstand the elements or simply bring portable indoor lamps outdoors when enjoying al fresco dinners.’
colour pop
Within a spectrum of hues that readily complement the tabletop decorations
faux greenery
These artificial vine leaves feature LED lights for an added sparkling effect.
natural texture
Rattan-inspired awnings bring a rustic feel to outdoor spaces.
7. Fully commit to extravagant party lighting
If you’re organizing a big event and seeking impressive outdoor table lighting solutions, consider going bold by integrating multiple types of illumination for optimal impact. Avoid keeping it understated to make a significant statement.
outdoor lighting mistake
that should be avoided.
‘Integrating fixed and movable illumination is essential for crafting an outdoor area that is both practical and inviting,’ explains Fred Horlock, the design director at
Neptune
‘. ‘Festoon lighting with warm tones, similar to ours,’
Rosewood lights
, creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, with portable LED lights placed around the table—consider using these
Hanover
Lamps provide adjustable task lighting that elegantly accentuates the table setting and imparts a sophisticated vibe to the garden.
For an eye-catching addition to your event setup, consider suspending decorations above your guests for a dazzling centerpiece. This approach is particularly effective if your tables are set up beneath a garden trellis or enclosed patio. Just hang glass pendants from clear fishing line and insert small glowing lights inside each jar.
Multi-pack
Create an immediate statement by clustering these small candle holders over a table. Alternatively, you can add some air plants into one or two of them for a touch of greenery.
Waterproof
With filament-style LED bulbs these solar lanterns can be clustered for added impact at larger events, plus they feature waterproof filament LEDs so no problem if the rain comes
Eco-friendly
Adorn a porch with lights hung between the rafters for a delightful greeting. These soft white bulbs also conserve energy.
8. Add a touch of countryside allure
If you have a birthday celebration or outdoor party lined up, consider boosting the enjoyment factor with vibrant and pattern-filled decorations that will shine beautifully on a bright summer day.
Group attractive paper lanterns similar to those
Meri Meri x Molly Mahon lanterns
With vibrant bunting strung across above the table, along with an array of intricately designed tableware, vivid candles, and glass vases filled with cheerful flowers.
When choosing colors, ‘trust your instincts and follow your intuition,’ advises the designer.
Molly Mahon
‘. Disregard any ‘rules’ you might have encountered. I select colors that evoke feelings of happiness and satisfaction for me. For me, combining hues feels instinctive and enjoyable.’
“A color palette can serve as an excellent beginning point,” states Sania Pell, who is an interior stylist and the creative director.
Meri Meri
‘It might be vibrant and contrasting or subtler with cohesive tones. Petite flower arrangements introduce bursts of color and bring life to the space, placing candles along the middle to generate an immediate sense of awe.’
pastel shades
Solar-charged necklaces will be replenished during the day, prepared for nighttime use.
pretty print
Timeless toile brings a charming element – available in delicate shades of soft pink or blue.
paper play
Combine solid colors with patterns – these paper lanterns are ideal for celebrations.
9. Incorporate a natural texture
‘Outdoor lighting ought to seem like a continuation of the ambiance you wish to establish—not merely practical, but also emotional,’ according to him.
Beth Helmstetter
Founder and Creative Director of Beth Helmstetter Events.
‘Pendant lights hung above cafes or suspended lanterns add a celebratory ambiance, whereas candle-filled hurricane lamps or votive candles in various containers generate coziness at eye height. To introduce an element of fun, I frequently drape string lighting over foliage or incorporate different textures with ceiling pendants crafted from materials like wicker, rice paper, or ceramic.’
‘Always install lighting lower than you imagine it should be (eight to nine feet from the floor works well), so that it integrates into the space rather than serving merely a practical purpose.’
cool curves
The trendy scalloped hem enhances this basic woven shade.
statement piece
Drape low over an outdoor dining area to make a spectacular centerpiece.
dome shape
Experiment with three different tones placed at varied levels above an outdoor table or bar.
An effectively designed lighting plan can improve your exterior area, and by concentrating on the dining table zone, it will set up an ideal atmosphere for family get-togethers throughout the entire summer season.
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