We love the idea of backyard entertaining, but I think we may have had our last dinner party outdoors until next year. This past summer we made a table that comfortably seats 10. We used Hairpin Legs and followed instructions from theses clever girls.
We loved the industrial look of the Fold Leg No.1 from Hairpin Legs and used the 28″ length. The top was constructed much like Elsie’s and of course we stained it black. I wrote about the chairs here and they were painted the color which Farrow & Ball calls London Stone. We wanted the whole look to sort of blend in with the surroundings and the black garage and white house.
All you need for a great backyard dinner party is a beautiful evening, perfect lighting, music, delicious food, and a great table with comfortable seating.
We were so happy with the way the table turned out, we really didn’t want to cover it up completely with a tablecloth. We used white linen runners and napkins from H&M Home and all white dishes from Williams-Sonoma. The silver soup spoons have been collected over time from flea markets from California to New York and a few from France and Italy. (My idea of souvenirs) We use herb bouquets or farmer’s market flowers in jars to keep it simple.
Lots of candles, a stack of blankets when the evening starts to get chilly and always extra glassware for when you forget where you put down your drink.
A bench serves as extra space for the soup, bread and extra glassware.
Hopefully we will get in one last gathering before the cold weather sets in….it may have to a be a brunch or late lunch during the warmest part of an autumn day.
classic•casual•home says
I would love to attend your dinner party!!! COME BACK TO CALIFORNIA AND USE THE TABLE ALL YEAR LONG. Just wishful thinking. You are so talented, Annie. And so is your husband.
annie says
I would LOVE to have your family at any one of my dinner parties….so if it takes moving back to California…well….
the gardeners cottage says
annie i thought of this table this weekend when we had a little gathering. i’d so love to make one for thanksgiving. your style is impeccable. x
annie says
Thank you Janet, but you know I learned it all from you! There’s time to make one for Thanksgiving!
Karen says
Gorgeous and simple…the very best combination! You really have a knack, Lady! 🙂 xo
annie says
Thank you sweet friend!!
Pam says
Love this so much Annie! Where did you get the blankets? Perfect touch!
annie says
The gray blankets are from Ikea! I use them only for dinner parties so they stay looking nice. I think they were $4 each!
cindy hattersley says
I want to come to dinner at your house!! You have such great style Annie! I was going to ask about the blankets…are you kidding? IKEA!! Will you take me shopping as well!!
René says
I love every detail! The blankets remind me of a restaurant in Venice that had blankets on the back of each chair.
Mindy Laven says
This looks so lovely! Everything about your simple, neutral outdoor style appeals to me! Makes me want to build a table and have a dinner party! Thanks for the Friday inspiration!
Kris {Driven by Decor} says
You are the most amazing hostess – this looks heavenly!
Mary-Irene Marek says
This is perfection!! I love everything you do!!
Karen says
P.S. Annie, I’m loving the glasses you set the table with…would you mind sharing the source? Thank you! xo
annie says
Hi Karen!
They are from Williams-Sonoma. I think they are about $3.50 each and very durable.
xo
annie
Design Chic says
What a beautiful table and dining outdoors is one of my favorite treats. Like you, we are getting a chill in the air in NC so we won’t be doing it for long…happy Tuesday!