Going all out al fresco
There’s something about eating outdoors. A generous helping of fresh air and sunshine can magically make even the simplest meal taste delicious.
That’s all to the good, because summer’s no time to be slaving over a hot stove indoors - but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a little time and trouble over the table. By giving a setting a real sense of occasion, maybe opting for a theme, you’ll not only make it memorable but you could ramp up the fun - a few drinks could turn into a party and a supper into a celebration.
“Having lunch and supper parties outside is one of the real joys of summer,” enthuses interior designer, Joanna Wood.
“I really like using unusual nature-inspired dishes in the shapes of leaves, and I like to work to a theme and pick a different one each year.”
This year Joanna’s creating her own ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ al fresco setting, to g touch.
“A theme allows you to be creative and you can incorporate flowers, candles and
maybe
floating flower heads with tea lights for evening parties,” she says. “It’s all about a bit of imagination and planning that will result in something you can enjoy for the whole season.”
So turn the tables on dull dining and instead experiment with one of these three themes: Love Island style, a fun festival vibe, or a little slice of calm with country cool... If you envy those fit reality TV show residents in their sun-drenched Mallorcan villa, create your own sizzling Mediterranean hotspot. It could be perfect for leisurely meals and chilling (romancing optional!). Group potted palms, ferns and other tall foliage around simple seating. Low benches or boxes made comfy with foam rectangles wrapped in bright fabric will do nicely. Finally, inject another zip of sunshine colour with outdoor rugs and cushions. Then sit ck and enjoy the banter!
Mix a decor cocktail and pick
n Love Island style with ogans and beach style accesssp ories - pool blue and flamingo
rules! val season’s arrived. No ckets - no problem! Simply give a table setting a boho, laid-back vibe, turn on the sound system, and have your own personal ‘feastival’ - without the mud, wellies or sagging tents.
This look is all about personality - pops of colour, mismatched china, and lots of freshly cut flowers and foliage. Don’t take it too seriusly es - there’s it kick-off-your-shoes no room for foromom ity here - just give it a bit ippy-dippy character that relaxing.
Pile on the paper lanterns and garlands - use solar lights for when the sun’s gone down - and add jewel-coloured glassware for a dash of glamour. John Lewis is a brilliant destination for homeware that will ramp up al fresco style, including a brilliant range of tableware and furniture. Its Croft Collection garden dining table bench, £220, is ideal, while a Camden garden bistro table and chairs set is currently reduced to £63 from £79. A Sol pouffe at £120, makes a great finishing touch. The beauty of a rustic scene is its simplicity. All that’s needed are a wooden table and chairs, a linen runner and napkins, and plenty of lanterns and candles. Don’t forget to cater for chilly nights by putting a throw or a blanket on each chair.
“I really enjoy the chance to make the most of time outdoors with friends and family. And come the summer months, there is nothing I love more than a picnic or eating al fresco,” says Liz Earle, founder of Liz Earle Wellbeing magazine.
“Outdoors are a great way of enjoying the great outdoors and making the most of nature’s beauty, but they don’t just have to be daytime affairs. There’s nothing nicer than lingering over a meal on a sultry evening and pretty lighting will transform a setting.” Battery operated tea lights, which twinkle into the night, are a pretty and safe way to add enchantment, Liz says. “Perch them on jars or logs to give them a bit more height, or use them in hanging glass lanterns above a table to make a focal point,” she suggests. The closer you get to echoing your indoor taste outside in your garden ‘room’, the more successful the result will be.