Tips for Creating an Outdoor Fall Gathering Table

There’s just something magical about fall in the garden.  The beautiful vibrant colors, a crispness in the air, and the golden sunlight casting long shadows.  Ahh, it makes a dreamy setting for spending time with friends and family.  Before the long, cold winter begins, it’s time to enjoy those last moments outdoors. Today, I’m sharing some tips for creating an outdoor Fall gathering table.

Welcome to my garden!

Let the Colors of the Garden Set the Stage

The rich golds, oranges and greens of our garden provide the beautiful and vibrant color for my outdoor gathering.  I’ve simply complemented nature’s beautiful display with a neutral table and a few sprinkles of navy blue.

Create Ambiance with Lighting

I’ve layered the table with a mix of lanterns, long taper candles and votives.  I’d love to add strings of cafe lights overhead – maybe next year!

The votives are repurposed yogurt pots. I poured soy wax to makes these, but you could also just pop in a small votive candle.

Keep a Basket Nearby for Extra Supplies

A basket or two makes carrying supplies in and out a bit easier.  It’s also nice to have a stash of extra towels nearby for clean up, etc.

Use a Mix of Thrifted and Vintage Dinnerware

All of the plates and bowls are thrift store finds.  The blue goblets are vintage pieces I’ve picked up along the way.  I’ve mixed and matched the dinnerware, as well as the napkins. I prefer a less formal more relaxed look, in general.

Add Warm Blankets and Soft Linens

The linen ruffle tablecloth adds movement and a lovely softness to the setting.

Warm blankets, chair cushions, and pillows keep the space cozy.

Add Seasonal Florals and Produce

I’ve added a few white pumpkins and some seeded eucalyptus for touches of fall. Very simple for sure!

Enjoy Your Perfectly Imperfect Space

I’ve saved the most important tip for last.

My husband pointed out the moss on our patio pavers when he saw these photos.  (When I say “pointed out,” I actually mean he “gasped”). We had a cool and wet summer, and much of our garden is already covered with green moss.  Even though I know it doesn’t look “perfect,” I decided to enjoy this space and share it with you today.  Don’t sweat the imperfections and let them keep you from enjoying your space. Open your home and heart to friends and family this season, green moss and all.  Because that’s really the point, isn’t it?

I hope I’ve inspired you to create an outdoor Fall gathering table and to enjoy your home this season.  Be well, my friends!

With gratitude,

Susan

***This post contains affiliate links.  For my complete disclosure, see here.***

Sources

Park Hill Lanterns | Black taper candle holder set | Table and bench – World Market | Cafe Chairs – Restoration Hardware | Whitewash Hyacinth Placemats | White dinner plates – thrifted | Scalloped edge salad plates | Lion head soup bowls | Laguiole steak knives | Salt and Pepper shakers | Linen ruffle tablecloth – HomeGoods (similar here)