There’s something about setting an outdoor table that makes even a casual dinner party feel a little more special. White linens, fresh flowers, candlelight, and a table that invites people to stay awhile. It doesn’t take much, but those small details have a way of changing the feel of an entire evening. I’ve always believed that hosting isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing a few things thoughtfully and creating a space that feels welcoming and relaxed from the moment people arrive. Here are a few simple elements I always come back to when hosting outdoors.

Start with the table. A crisp white linen instantly sets the tone and gives the table a clean, inviting feel. Layer in just a few thoughtful details—a cloth napkin, simple glassware, and plates that feel pretty but still keep things easy. Believe it or not, the dinner and salad plates shown are actually sturdy paper plates. I love the idea of creating a beautiful table without having a sink full of dishes at the end of the night. 

Finish with one small detail. This is often what people remember most. It might be candlelight as the sun starts to set, a handful of fresh lemons scattered down the table or small vases of flowers grown locally.

Add something refreshing to sip. A signature drink is one of my favorite ways to welcome guests and set the tone for the evening. This time of year, serve omething refreshing like a basil lemonade spritz, It can be served exactly as it is for a fresh, nonalcoholic option, or topped with prosecco for guests who want something a little more festive. The smell of fresh basil simmering on the stove might be one of my favorite parts. These small touches create atmosphere: they don’t require much, but have a way of making guests feel comfortable and at ease. Outdoor entertaining doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special. With just a few thoughtful details, an ordinary summer evening can turn into something people remember long after the table is cleared.

Basil Syrup 

1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed 

1 cup granulated sugar 

1 cup water 

To Make Your Spritz 

2 oz basil syrup

2 oz fresh lemon juice 

Prosecco or sparkling water to top

Ice 

Lemon slices & fresh basil for garnish

1) MAKE BASIL SYRUP: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup water. Heat over medium, stirring, until the sugar is completely dissolved. 2) ADD BASIL: Add the basil leaves and gently press into the saucepan. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, until the syrup is fragrant and basil is softened. Do not boil. 3) STEEP: Remove from heat and let the basil steep in the syrup for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor). 4) STRAIN: Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bowl. Discard the basil leaves. Let cool completely. 5) JUICE LEMONS: Juice lemons and strain if desired to remove pulp. 6) ASSEMBLE YOUR SPRITZ: Pour equal parts basil syrup and lemon juice over ice. Top off with Prosecco or sparkling water for a mocktail. 7) STIR & GARNISH: Stir gently and garnish with lemon slices and fresh basil leaves. 8) SERVE & ENJOY. Cheers!