The time is finally here for summer nights outside, drink in hand, and friends all around. Al fresco dining at home is the perfect way to dip your toe back into hosting and gathering — and we are SO ready. You don’t need much to plan a breezy backyard dinner party, but we’re here with the inspiration to get you relaxing and vibing all summer long.
{photo above via Calimia Home}
What is al fresco dining?
photo: Anna Delores Photography // see more from this chic summer party
But first, let’s clear the air. Loosely translated from Italian, “al fresco” means “in the cool air.” We’ve come to use the term to simply mean “enjoying a meal outside.” From picnics to BBQs to backyard dinner parties, eating outside is a true treat for the senses and automatically inspires a feeling of ease.
photo: Kadi Tobin Photography // see more from this intimate backyard wedding
We’re particularly inspired to plan some al fresco meals at home thanks to so many beautiful backyard weddings this year! There is so much you can do in your own backyard (or patio!) to create an inviting space for family and friends. It doesn’t take much and it shouldn’t take much.
photo: Mary Costa Photography // see more from this colorful backyard wedding
The whole idea behind al fresco at home is that of ease! It’s a breezy meal that doesn’t need to be planned to the very last detail. Having items at home that help you carry food, keep things covered, and make the space inviting + cozy will all attribute to a dreamy (and easy) night with friends.
photo: Sara Ligorria-Tramp for Emily Henderson
Stock Your Home for Easy Al Fresco Dining
Let’s channel that Italian influence and enjoy some laid-back meals outside! It’s helpful to have a few things on hand specifically for backyard gatherings. Here are 26 items that make al fresco dining at home a real picnic — literally and figuratively.
1. Wheat Straw Plates
2. Bamboo Spun Serving Bowl
3. Raised Floral Glass Tumblers
4. 3-Pack Acacia Wood Bowls
5. Jacquard-Weave Seat Cushion
6. Al Fresco Dining Table Cotton Tablecloth (3 color options)
7. Linen-Blend Napkins (3 color options)
7. Glass Dome with Wooden Tray
8. Wine Glasses
9. Linen-Blend Apron
10. Linen-Blend Table Runner
10. Rattan Tray for Al Fresco Dining
11. Ceramic Tile Trivet
12. Soleil Tagine
13. Roma Wrapped Utensil Set
14. Glass Drink Dispenser for Dining Al Fresco
14. Nothing Fancy: Unfussy Food for Having People Over By Alison Roman
15. Stoneware Pitcher
15. Terrazzo Patio Accent Table
16. White Metal Outdoor Lantern
17. Outdoor String Lantern Lights
18. Stoneware Wind Chimes
19. Square Solar Pathway Light
20. Streamlined Cheese Knives
21. Silver Al Fresco Dining Beverage Tub
22. Round Lidded Picnic Baskets
23. Stripe Seagrass Utensil Holder
24. Woven Straw Food Covers for Al Fresco Dining
25. Aura Raffia Placemats
26. Al Fresco Dining Picnic Basket
Here’s to al fresco dining at home that’s simple, delicious, and goes well into those dreamy summer nights!
