With warm weather approaching, our thoughts turn to alfresco dining: here’s a roundup of the essentials our editors keep on hand to make outdoor dining and entertaining easy:
Indestructible Glasses
Above: Janet’s nomination for indestructible drink ware is Play Clear Acrylic Barware, available in two sizes, from $4.50 to $4.95 per glass depending on size from CB2.
Linen Tablecloth
Above: Francesca likes the Natural Linen Table Cloth with black stripes; available in several sizes and prices starting at 55 by 80 inches for $73.81 from Alabatis via Etsy.
Bistro-Style Flatware
Above: Julie stocks up on bistro-style flatware; the Gingko Le Prix Flatware is available in several colors and costs $40.39 for a 20-piece flatware set (service for four) at Amazon.
Bistro-Style Wine Glasses
Above: For sipping wine outdoors, we like the classic French bistro-style Clear Tumbler Wine Glasses from Picardie; a set of six is $14.48 at Amazon.
Hardwood Bowls
Above: Christine’s favorite bowls for serving summer salads are Colonial Hardwood Bowls made of walnut; $35 to $161, depending on size, from the Vermont Bowl Company.
Glass Carafes
Above: The Wide Mouth Juice Jar from German company Weck can be used as a refrigerator-to-table container for homemade iced tea, coffee, or juice. A set of two 7.25-inch-tall jars is $14 at Terrain (rubber rings and metal clamps included).
Wooden Trays
Above: Janet is devoted to the Stockholm Serving Tray from Ikea; made of clear lacquered ash veneer, it measures 20 inches in diameter and costs $34.99.
Hurricane Lanterns
Above: Michelle protects candle flames from wind with clear glass Glasig Lanterns from Ikea; $9.99 each.
Water Pitchers
Above: We’re partial to the Emile Henry Pitcher for water service. Handcrafted from local clay in Burgundy, the pitcher is available in several colors, including flour as shown; $50 from Emile Henry.
See more ideas to create a serene outdoor space for dining, entertaining, and lounging in our curated Hardscape 101 design guides to Decks & Patios and Outdoor Kitchens. Get inspired by some of our favorite spaces:
