Eating outside is one of my favorite things to do in the summer. It’s like I want to soak up as much of the warm summer air as I can, and try to keep it with me through the winter. Whether it’s fruit and muffins on the porch in the morning, a sandwich with iced tea on the patio outside my studio at lunchtime or some grilled delicacy by the pool for an evening dinner, I can’t get enough of dining al fresco!

While many times, it might be a quick bite to eat by myself, the times I truly enjoy are when I have company staying with me or can invite family and friends to share a meal. And it’s these times my design instincts kick into gear. I don’t want paper plates and plastic cups; never mind that those aren’t good for the environment, when I’m entertaining, I don’t care where it is, it’s an event. A process to be savored slowly, enjoyed over hours, not minutes. Thus I like to create a space that is welcoming and pleasing to the eye!

Need some more ideas? Pinterest or Google are your best friends when it comes to this. You’ll find outdoor table settings and recipes galore if you need a little inspiration. There are only so many summer days and nights, so enjoy some delicious food and wine in a lovely outdoor setting! Cheers!