Your Outdoor Dinner Party Checklist

Entertaining outdoors can be a fun way to take a traditional dinner party and make it an enchanting event. A patio dining set during this time can become a central focal point that gets noticed, especially when you consider the possibilities attached to wicker patio sets.

Certainly, a traditional metal patio dining set with an elegant tablecloth and candle lighting can look amazing out in the garden against the soft glow of the moonlight. But consider that wicker patio sets can take your setting to a higher level. Inside the wicker, you can run either real ivy or plastic ivy and take it around the edge of the tables and chairs. Inside the backs of the chairs, you can add flowers or any number of other items to give it a more magical feeling.

For a successful dinner party, there are some items that you must have at your event. Use this checklist to help you nail down the basics, and consider other items that might make the event more unique.

Tablecloth. Use one that matches the event theme. From light and floral patterns to dark and vibrant. Be certain that this fits the table and the look you are trying to achieve.

Napkins. Depending on the type of dinner party you are having, consider using anything from paper napkins to more elegant cloth ones. Just be sure they match your setting. Consider using a napkin ring to increase the elegance of your setting.

Dinnerware. Depending on what you are serving, you will want to use the best tableware and utensils that are appropriate to the setting. For a more casual event, you might use paper plates and plastic utensils. For a formal event, you can even consider using fine china and hand polished silver.

Glassware. Depending on the drinks you will be serving, you will need to make sure you have the appropriate set up. For coffee and hot beverages, mugs are always a good choice. For iced drinks, a tall glass is usually the best idea. And of course, wine glasses always lend themselves to a beautiful, elegant look. In some cases, you might want to use wine glasses as a replacement for traditional water glasses.

Salt and Pepper, Condiments. These are essential for your guests to truly enjoy their dinner. Be sure you have all the necessary spices and toppings available for your guests.

Centerpiece. This will prove to be an essential item. Make it reflect the entire theme of the event and current setting.

Candles. Candles are a must for a beautiful setting and creating a wonderful ambience. These should be lit before the event to give them a light drip that looks elegant. Pillars are usually more formal while tea candles are more elegant.

Music. Something soft and relaxing is important to help set the mood. Try to find instrumental music as a relaxing backdrop to your dinner party.affair.

Wine. Keep in mind that your wine should match your protein dish, match white with light meats and red with darker ones.

Surrounding decor. Be mindful of the overall look and feel your are trying to create and incorporate your patio dining set into the setup as a focal point. Use plenty of flowers and plants to create the perfect setting.


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