"Hospitality is simply love on the table." – Unknown
Outdoor table setting isn’t just about practicality—it’s a gesture of warmth, thoughtfulness, and a little magic. Whether you’re hosting a lively BBQ, an elegant al-fresco dinner, a summer garden party, or just sharing a few sunset drinks, a well-set table creates an inviting atmosphere that makes every gathering feel special.
In many cultures, table setting is more than just an aesthetic choice; it’s a mark of respect and tradition. It sets the tone for an occasion, reflecting good manners and an appreciation for those who join you. For some, it’s a ritual steeped in heritage—part of a cultural practice, a religious ceremony, or a beloved family tradition passed down through generations.
Setting the garden table is a simple yet meaningful act of hospitality. It’s a way to show your guests that you’ve taken the time to create a welcoming space, where they can relax and enjoy the moment. And let’s not forget—the right table setting enhances the beauty of your outdoor space, making your patio dining experience feel effortlessly elegant and refined.
After all, here at Lazy Magazine, we think the best moments in life are shared around the garden table.
For us, the art of outdoor table setting lies in creating a balance between elegance and comfort. It’s about choosing the right tableware, layering textures, and incorporating natural elements like flowers or candles to enhance the ambience.
Thoughtful details—like coordinated linens, soft lighting, and a centrepiece—can transform a simple meal into a memorable experience. Ultimately, it’s not just about aesthetics but about making guests feel welcome and cherished in a beautifully curated space.
Here is our simple 14-step guide on how to set your garden table for any summer get-together:
1. Clean your garden furniture sets
Before setting your garden table, make sure the surface is clean. Wipe away any dirt, debris, or dust with a little warm water and a splash of car shampoo. Give it a rinse, dry it, and apply a light coat of car wax to give the painted finish a nice lustre.
2. Add a tablecloth or placemats
If you have a tablecloth, spread it evenly over the table. Make sure it hangs evenly on all sides. Alternatively, and our preference so as not to hide our beautiful tabletops, you can use placemats for each setting (as shown above) or just keep it as is (as we have done below).
3. Place your dinnerware on the garden table
Place dinner plates in the centre of each setting. If you are using salad plates, position them on top of the dinner plates.
4. Set the tableware around the dinnerware
Arrange the tableware (fork, knife, and spoon) based on the meal you are serving. Keep it casual (as shown above) or if you want to follow correct etiquette, then place forks to the left of the plate, knives to the right (blade facing the plate), and spoons to the right of the knife. Consider any other helpful utensils, like bottle opener, corkscrew, salad forks or dessert spoons, and position them accordingly.
5. Add suitable glassware
Set water glasses above the dinner knife, slightly to the right. If serving wine, place wine glasses to the right of the water glass. Make sure you have the right types of glassware for the drinks you plan to serve
6. Don't forget the napkins
Fold or place napkins either on top of the dinner plate or beside the forks. You can get creative with napkin folding or use napkin rings for an extra touch of sophistication.
7. Add a garden table centrepiece
Think of the outdoor table centrepiece as your cherry on the cake. It could be a beautiful vase of fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, scented candles, or any decorative item that complements the outdoor setting and the theme you’re going for.
8. Put the condiments on a Lazy Susan
If serving condiments, place them in the centre of a Lazy Susan or strategically around the table. Set salt and pepper shakers within easy reach of all guests.
9. Use suitable lighting for outdoor dining after sunset
If your outdoor meal extends into the evening, consider adding ambient lighting, such as string lights, lanterns, or candles.
10. Have outdoor heating for garden dining in the evening
If the temperature dips when the sun sets, fire up a patio heater or drape outdoor blankets over the backs of your garden chairs so you and your guests can wrap up.
11. Make your guests comfortable
Add our cushions or seat pads to your garden chairs for extra comfort and position a parasol over your garden table to provide shade if the sun is shining. Our range can be tilted so you can keep it out of your eyes.
12. Consider traffic flow
Think about how guests will move around your outdoor space. Arrange items in a way that allows for comfortable movement around the table. Ensure guests can easily reach all items and easily access facilities.
13. Add some personal touches
If the party is a special occasion, consider adding personal touches, like name cards or small favours, to make the table setting feel more special.
14. Always expect the unexpected when eating al fresco in the UK
Be mindful of the weather. If it's windy, use napkin weights or other sturdy items to keep lightweight pieces in place. If rain is in the forecast, have a backup plan to move indoors or under cover. On sunny days, ensure there’s plenty of shade to keep everyone cool and comfortable.
The key to a great outdoor meal or gathering is creating a setting that is both functional and inviting. Tailor your setup to match the occasion, your outdoor space, and your style. But most importantly, focus on making your guests feel comfortable and welcome in your home and garden!
If you have any photos of our outdoor tables set for a party this summer, then we would love to see a few for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload It Here.
