Our BEAUTIFUL MacKenzie-Childs dinnerware just came in the mail and I was so excited I just had to try it out! I was so excited to throw a backyard dinner party for my sister when she came into town, but we had to take an unexpected trip at the exact same time she was coming (of course). So instead we ended up just having a special dinner with just our family. Here are a few rules I go by whenever I throw a dinner party to make it perfectly magical.
Tips for a Magical Backyard Dinner Party
Table Settings
Full table settings make for a beautiful backyard dinner party. Having table setting prepared reminds me of a restaurant-style dinner experience that might be especially fun for your guests. And the fun thing about table settings is that you can mix and match pieces to get whatever look you love! Speaking of, I am in love with their Sweetbriar and Flower Market collections from MacKenzie-Childs! They are so beautiful and so high quality. I didn’t go too crazy on the table settings for this dinner because I liked the simple look and feel of less dishes, although you can always add as many as you like. I went with the Sweetbriar charger, serving bowl, cordial glasses, table runner, beaded napkin holders, and the Gold Check flatware set. I love the bright colors of the Flower Market collection, so I added in a few of those pieces on the table (like the pan, bowel, and pitcher) to add a little interest.
String Lights
I think string lights make everything more magical! We don’t have many trees in our backyard, so we just hung them from the side of the house to a tree near the deck. Even a few strands can make your backyard dinner party more magical.
Flowers
When in doubt, add flowers! haha Flowers can take any situation, and especially table settings, to the next level. If you’re not a fan of colorful flowers, any kind of greenery works too! I’ve even seem some adorable table settings using succulents as center pieces.
Seasonal food
Food, of course, is the main attraction. I think serving seasonal food is always the right idea. Find in-season fruits and veggies and pair them with something light and easy to eat. Because it’s summer, I made a light summer salad, sweet potato hash and grilled chicken.
Dress | Shoes | Lettie & Londyn’s Jumper | Rowen’s Shirt (similar) and Shorts (similar)
Sunset
If you’re able, hosting your backyard dinner party at sunset is the perfect time of day. Not only will your pictures turn out great, but the weather will be cooler and it makes for a beautiful lighting ambiance. It’s especially fun if your party lasts into the evening, then as the sun sets, your string lights will keep everything lit beautifully as it gets darker.
Thanks for stopping by! xx
