The Perfect Outdoor Table
When warm weather sets in, we often feel the call to take our living — and especially our entertaining — outdoors. As a well-seasoned host of al fresco fetes, Amanda has the art of the perfect outdoor tablescape down to a science. And while there is no single way to set a perfect table, these tried-and-true tips are sure to help you create a relaxed yet elegant table setting for your next outdoor party.
The joyful scenes of nightly dinners at Amanda’s Bahamas home, Hope Hill, always have one thing in common: unapologetic splashes of color. In the table settings, the flowers, the food and cocktails — vibrant hues are a welcome reminder that gatherings should be fun, not fussy. Maintaining an elegant feel comes from setting the table with cohesive materials, timeless patterns and an abundance of candlelight.
Layer It On
Just like a well-designed room, the ideal summer tablescape is created in thoughtful layers. It requires a strong foundation to set the tone, a range of practical yet pretty pieces that properly fill the space and a spattering of charming accents that add just the right amount of whimsy. Oh, and good lighting. Always good lighting.
Whether it’s dinner for four or brunch for twelve, an appropriately sized table is the first step toward creating a memorable gathering. We prefer closer quarters than some, because we believe more intimate seating fosters the good kind of conversation that keeps guests lingering at the table long after dessert has come and gone. So, whether that means taking the leaf out of your formal dining room table or breaking out the plastic folding table from the attic, set the right-sized scene for a cozy moment.
Punchy Patterns
Amanda’s collection of elegant block-printed linens make for the perfect base of your table decoration — and the island-inspired colors and complementary patterns make mixing and matching different sets effortless. Pair one of our classic patterned tablecloths with napkins in the inverse colorway. Or swap in a solid linen napkin of your own for a bold contrast.
Individual place settings are key to elevating a typical weeknight meal at the dinner table to a more sophisticated moment. Opt for smaller round or square placemats to accommodate cozy seating without crowding your table. Turn up the pattern play with a second layer of Amanda’s jaunty prints or mix in another tropical staple with our natural woven placemats. Homemade place cards are another fun and thoughtful touch to top off each setting.
Amanda’s 2x3 Bamboo Short Knot Frame holds a place card.
Glassware Fit for the Islands
Maybe you prefer to start your evenings with a casual cocktail hour that leaves a cushion for those guests arriving on island time. Serving drinks in glasses that everyone can easily handle as they mill about is a no-brainer. And stocking your patio’s bar cart with our rattan-wrapped tumblers isn’t just a pretty idea — it’s a practical solution for glasses with cold cocktails on a warm summer night. And once everyone takes their seat at the table, you’ll have an extra layer of natural texture befitting your summer soirée.
The finishing touches to your outdoor summer table are essential to creating that breezy summertime feel. Unfussy flower arrangements or even simple greenery clippings from your garden make for simple yet beautiful centerpieces to elevate your tablescape — quite literally! Adding a few taller elements is key to fancying up an otherwise simple table setting.
Candlelight is Key!
Finally, candlelight is arguably Amanda’s top requirement for a successful evening gathering. Breezy Bahamian nights don’t make that easy, which is why our domed glass hurricanes are a must for your outdoor dining area or patio.
They’re perfectly shaped to shield the flame from any breezes, so the warm light can linger as long as your guests do. Place several small votives around your centerpieces, and don’t skip lightning the rest of your area, either. Large woven lanterns can sit on the floor to guide guests back to the house and tall glass hurricanes dress up your bar cart for repeat visitors throughout the night.
Amanda’s Lyford Bar Table flanked by Harbour Island Lanterns.
