Photography: Mitchell Kemp
When the weekend rolls around, there’s nothing better than taking the party outdoors. Whether you’re gathering around a big dining table under the trees or setting up a spontaneous spread on the deck, entertaining alfresco is all about relaxed charm. With the right touches—think easy table styling, fresh drinks and a menu that’s more “serve yourself” than silver service—it’s surprisingly simple to host with flair. And if the weather turns? A good indoor–outdoor flow means the fun doesn’t have to stop. From casual catch-ups to last-minute lunches, here are six gorgeous ideas to make weekend entertaining feel effortless and chic.
Modern alfresco living
For a contemporary outdoor space made for easy, elegant entertaining, position a generous outdoor sofa and armchairs around a low coffee table—perfect for relaxed drinks and conversation—within reach of an outdoor dining table. This invites guests to linger over long lunches or alfresco dinners. An undercover BBQ area means cooking is part of the fun, come rain or shine, and a striking outdoor fireplace adds warmth and atmosphere as the sun sets. With everything close at hand it’s ideal for hosting friends and family with laid-back style.Remember to draw up your bar cart to save trips back and forth to the kitchen.
Effortless outdoor elegance
Set the scene for effortless outdoor dining with a nature-inspired table that feels fresh and inviting. Start with crisp white crockery as a clean canvas, then layer in natural textures—think linen napkins, timber boards and earthy ceramics. Directors’ chairs add relaxed elegance and are easy to pull up for extra guests. Finish with a simple arrangement of garden blooms or foliage in a glass vase for a touch of laid-back beauty that ties it all together.
Golden hour gatherings
Extend your living space beyond the back door with a big outdoor table – a must for an alfresco zone – along with chairs or bench seating for outdoor entertaining. String up the fairy lights for when the sun dips below the horizon, and dress your table in seasonal hues and top with a central flower arrangement. Keep things simple with a refined colour palette to match your favourite table linen.
Beautiful all year round, this home truly comes into its own in summer. Conveniently located off the dining domain, the sunny spotted-gum deck – perfect for indoor-outdoor living.
Keep it casual
Especially for impromptu entertaining, bright colours and accessories add flair to your table and make guests feel welcomed, with a minimum of fuss. Add a pot plant to your tray or table for a touch of portable greenery. A small pot of rosemary not only looks good, but it’s a hardy plant that will thrive outdoors.
(Photography: Chris Warnes / Styling: Fiona Gould)
Cosy undercover soiree
A big, comfy outdoor lounge is the perfect addition to any outdoor oasis. Recline and relax on warm nights with a friends and a shared bottle of wine while the kids play in the pool. A small table allows guests to pop their drinks down somewhere and can also be used to add to the ambience of your outdoor retreat. A small vase filled with fresh blooms or a potted plant is a beautiful focal point.
Bring the outdoors inside
If bad weather hampers your entertaining efforts, bring the outdoors in with lunch or afternoon tea staged just inside your alfresco zone, where nature will form a backdrop to lush green and white styling with touches of texture.
Modern monochrome
Create a dramatic table with a modern monochrome palette of tableware. Layer rattan placemats with charcoal plates or black accents and bowls in all white. Add textural interest with metallic candlesticks and grey or natural linen napkins. Pile lush fruit onto a plate for added drama with grapes, berries and passionfruit for a fresh centrepiece.
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