As the weather warms and the days stretch longer, dining outdoors becomes one of life’s simplest luxuries. Whether you're entertaining guests or sharing a quiet dinner at home, creating a welcoming alfresco setting is easier than you think. From relaxed styling ideas to the perfect finishing scent, here’s how to elevate your outdoor space.
A Table That Gets Talked About
Drape the table in a lightweight linen to soften the setting, and add texture with woven placemats, rattan chargers or wooden boards. The best tablescapes are filled with character and personal touches, so don’t worry about matching everything perfectly. Mixed and matched dinnerware adds charm and a sense of ease. A few bud vases filled with garden clippings or herbs make for a beautiful (and budget-friendly) centerpiece.
Let There Be Light
If your gathering stretches into the evening, good lighting is essential. String up fairy lights (your Christmas stash will do just fine) or cluster lanterns around the table to create a soft, flattering glow.
For something practical as well as atmospheric, light the huge Alchemy Alfresco Mandarin & Neroli Outdoor Candle. It’s crafted for outside occasions and fills the space with a fresh and bright citrus scent that also works to keep bugs away. Designed in collaboration with Avenue Lane, the stunning ceramic vessel doubles as a decoration.
Design a Masterful Menu
Alfresco dining is best when it’s simple and shareable. Grill meats, Seafood or seasonal Vegetables ahead of time so you’re not stuck in the kitchen while guests mingle. A salad made for sharing adds colour and crunch.
Try combining peppery greens, fresh herbs and shavings of parmesan with a punchy, crowd-pleasing vinaigrette. Round things out with crusty bread and olive oil for dipping, and then finish with something simple that you can whip up ahead of time, like a citrus sorbet or pavlova piled high with fresh berries.
Be Your Own DJ
Every great gathering has a soundtrack. Curate a playlist that reflects the lightness of an outdoor get-together. Music works hand in hand with fragrance and flavour to shape the atmosphere, so aim for something that feels joyful, easy and effortlessly cool.
Learn more about the Alchemy Alfresco Mandarin & Neroli Outdoor Candle and
how your backyard can feel like the best seat in the house.
