Dining Alfresco: How We’re Hosting This Spring
There’s something about this time of year that makes us want to take everything outside. This season, we’re leaning into spring hosting and dining alfresco in a way that feels easy, layered, and inviting.
Start with the Table
When we’re setting the table for outdoor entertaining, we always begin with a foundation that feels inviting but not overdone.
Right now, we’ve been especially drawn to our Matouk Gisele Table Linens, currently styled on our front table. It also happens to be in our signature yellow and green, so naturally, we love it. The pattern brings just the right amount of color and movement and feels perfectly suited for spring.
From there, we love mixing in pieces that balance beauty and practicality. Vietri’s Melamine Lastra Collection has the look of classic ceramic but is lightweight and shatterproof, making it perfect for outdoor tables. It’s elevated, easy, and something we’ll reach for all season.
Our Kim Seybert Alfresco Placemats in green and natural add just the right amount of texture to the table.
These Aquazzura Secret Garden Napkins bring an easy pop of color and feel perfect for spring entertaining.
Layer in the Details
This is where the table really comes to life.
We always reach for pieces that feel both beautiful and functional. This Juliska Provence Rattan Bowl filled with rolled napkins and silverware adds warmth and texture to the table, while our Bordallo Pink Cabbage Collection makes serving feel instantly more special.
For florals, keep things simple. A few fresh stems in our etuHOME French Bee Mason Jars, adds just enough to the table without competing with everything else.
Pro Tip: When dining alfresco, let one or two pieces do the work and keep the rest simple. It keeps everything feeling elevated without looking overdone.
Add Something Special
Every table needs a moment. We’ve been especially excited about our newest Ginori Florenza Collection. Inspired by the landscapes surrounding Florence, it brings a softness to the table while still feeling refined. We love using a platter as a centerpiece. It instantly elevates even the simplest spring dishes.
As the sun starts to set, we always bring in a little glow. This stunning William Yeoward Lucia Hurricane is the perfect finishing touch for outdoor entertaining, bringing warmth and ambiance to the table as the evening carries on.
Keep It Easy
The best gatherings are the ones that feel relaxed. We like to serve things that don’t require too much attention, simple dishes that can be set out and enjoyed at a slower pace, especially when hosting outdoors.
For refreshments, we tend to keep things just as easy. A Limoncello Spritz is always a favorite this time of year, light, refreshing, and made for outdoor entertaining.
Our go-to:
- 2 oz limoncello
- 3 oz prosecco
- 1 oz club soda
- Fresh mint and lemon slices
Serve over ice in your prettiest glassware, we love these Estelle Mint Wine Glasses, and styled on a Juliska Provence Rattan Tray, you’re set.
For outdoor gatherings, we’ll often mix in something more practical, like these Juliska Acrylic Glasses, so everything still feels elevated without any worry.
Let It Linger
Some of the best moments happen after the table has been cleared. We always like to have something nearby that encourages guests to stay a little longer, whether it’s a quick round of cards, our Caspari Limoncello Playing Cards are the perfect touch, or mahjong with all the Oh My Mahjong essentials, mat and tiles included.
It’s those moments that turn a simple outdoor dinner into something memorable.
At the end of the day, hosting doesn’t have to be complicated. A beautiful table, something simple to serve, and good company are really all you need!