Entertaining outside in the summer just feels so good, doesn’t it? There’s something about being surrounded by nature, with the greenery, flowers, and birds chirping that makes everything more enjoyable. The fresh air alone can put you in a great mood. Being outdoors has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Combine that with good food and great company, and you’ve got a recipe for a perfect summer evening.
Want to know the key items you need for hosting that dinner party or fun family dinner outside? Look no further! I’ve rounded up a few summer ideas for entertaining and dining outdoors for you.
To make your outdoor dining experience both functional and beautiful, Target has an amazing selection of products that can transform your backyard or patio into the perfect summer dining spot. Here’s how you can elevate your outdoor meals with some key items from their summer collection. Everything is linked below for easy shopping!
This site contains affiliate links, view the disclosure for more information. As a Target Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
IDEAS FOR outdoor ENTERTAINING this summer
As the warm days of summer invite us to spend more time outdoors, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by dining al fresco. Whether you’re planning a casual family meal or an elegant evening with friends, having the right setup can make all the difference. In this blog post, I’m sharing a selection of stylish and functional outdoor dining essentials from Target.
From gorgeous melamine dinner and salad plates to durable acrylic drinkware, natural woven chargers, a handy utensil caddy, and elegant linen napkins, I’ll show you how to create a beautiful and inviting outdoor dining space. Get ready to elevate your outdoor dining experience and make the most of these delightful summer evenings.
melamine plates & ACRYLIC DRINKWARE
First up, melamine dinner plates and salad plates. These are perfect for outdoor use because they’re lightweight, durable, and look like real stoneware dishes. They add texture to your table setting and can withstand the occasional drop without breaking. They can be washed in the dishwasher, which is a must-have!
Next, consider acrylic drinkware. These glasses are shatterproof, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings. You don’t have to worry about broken glass if someone accidentally knocks one over. Plus, they look just as stylish as your indoor glasses, adding an elegant touch to your outdoor table.
natural woven chargers & utensil caddy
Natural woven chargers are another great addition. These chargers give your table a rustic, summery feel and provide a nice contrast to the smooth texture of the melamine plates. They also help protect your table and add a layer of sophistication to your setup.
To keep everything organized and within reach, a utensil caddy is a must-have. This Target option matches the chargers and is both functional and stylish. You can easily carry all your utensils, napkins, and even condiments in one trip, making setting the table a breeze.
linen napkins & cut greenery
Speaking of napkins, linen napkins are a fantastic way to add a touch of elegance to your outdoor dining. They’re not only more environmentally friendly than paper napkins, but they also feel luxurious and look beautiful on the table. Choose colors and patterns that complement your plates and drinkware for a cohesive look.
Don’t forget to add a simple centerpiece of cut greenery. It’s an easy and cost-effective way to bring a bit of nature to your table. You can use clippings from your own garden or pick up some fresh greens from the store. Arrange them in a vase or spread them along the table for a fresh, natural touch that ties everything together.
citronella candle
No outdoor dining setup is complete without considering some pest control, and a citronella candle is the perfect solution to keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay. They not only help ward off insects but also add a charming ambiance to your outdoor space.
Imagine sitting outside, enjoying a delicious meal with friends and family, and the soft glow of a citronella candle flickering on the table. The gentle, lemony scent of citronella is pleasant and not overpowering, creating a relaxing atmosphere that complements the natural outdoor setting.
Using citronella candles is a simple yet effective way to keep your outdoor dining experience enjoyable. They add a warm, inviting glow to your setup, make your space smell lovely, and most importantly, help keep the bugs away. I love this large, 5-wick citronella jar candle with a glass wind guard from Target. It’s not only beautiful to look at but also incredibly functional for a bug-free evening.
SUMMER IDEAS FOR outdoor ENTERTAINING
ALL FROM TARGET
summer ideas from target
With the right pieces from Target, you can effortlessly transform your outdoor dining space into a functional and beautiful oasis. From vibrant melamine dinnerware and durable acrylic drinkware to elegant linen napkins and natural woven chargers, these essentials set the stage for unforgettable summer meals.
Add in a few citronella candles to keep the bugs at bay and a simple centerpiece of cut greenery for a touch of nature, and you’re all set for a perfect evening under the stars. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and enjoy the joys of dining al fresco this summer. Here’s to creating wonderful memories and savoring the season in style!
I hope you enjoyed this post. Let me know in the comments below!
E D I T E D B Y
K A T E F R E V E R T
FREEBIE
PDF WORKBOOK:
CREATE YOUR VISION
get
your free
workbook
Why wait? Download your copy today and begin your transformation!
