Outdoor dining ideas – Our guide to alfresco entertaining

At long last the grey and cold misery of winter seems to be clearing and we’re heading into longer days, higher temperatures and some much sought-after sunshine. So, with spring/summer now upon us, who can blame us for wanting to head outside at every opportunity? Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, we’re big advocates of dining outside, so here’s our guide to alfresco entertaining, featuring some of our favourite items from our spring/summer Finishing Touches range.

On a beautiful summer afternoon little tastes better than a fresh salad washed down with a glass of chilled white wine. Our Addison range of crockery includes a beautiful waved salad bowl, salad servers, and oil & vinegar bottles as well as bowls and plates in a variety of shapes and sizes. The soft blue hue brings a calming, coastal feel to your garden, whether you’re in a countryside haven or an urban courtyard.  Addison range from £26.25

If you’re looking for something a little less formal and want to catch a relaxed 30 minutes in the garden, why not head outside to enjoy your afternoon coffee or morning cup of tea? Our Abella range, which includes teacups, jugs, tea caddies and trays gives you everything you need for afternoon tea in the sunshine – the perfect excuse to have a quiet half an hour to yourself. Abella range from £11.25

As summer days turn to summer nights, no alfresco entertaining would be complete without candles. Whether it’s tealights dotted across the table or some statement pillar candles as a centrepiece, candles and summer evenings spent in the garden go hand in hand so it’s worth stocking up. Candles from £9.95

Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten that the Great British summertime is notoriously chilly and damp. So, for when outdoor dining isn’t an option, how about bringing the garden to your table instead? We’ve got an extensive range of pots and vases each with a unique tactile edge, ideal for fresh blooms, fake flowers or even a juicy succulent. Pots/vases from £18.00

If you’d like to see more of our spring/summer range of Finishing Touches please visit our studio in Colchester. We’re just 5 minutes off the A12 and have free parking outside so why not pop in… there’s a coffee waiting for you.

Davonport | Peartree Road | Stanway | Colchester | Essex | CO3 0LQ

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm | Sat 10am-5pm