An alfresco dining area can be enjoyed anywhere – even in an unkempt yard. Move dinner outside and find your secret garden tonight! 

al fresco dining how to

Hi, Friends! Monday came so quickly – this summer is flying by. Our weekend was fabulous. It cooled down just enough for us to get outside for a bit of yard work and fun! But today, I am excited to be joining the lovely Chloe of Celebrate and Decorate for a sweet summer Alfresco Dining Tablescape Blog Hop!

I hate to admit that I’ve gotten behind on my gardening, especially in the backyard. The front yard received a little bit of love earlier in the summer, but we’ve completely neglected the back garden.

summer alfresco dining table

When things are looking overgrown as they are, I tend not to want to spend much time out back, as it usually reminds me of all of the work there is to do! But summer only lasts so long, and we should be taking advantage of the warm days and sultry evenings whenever we can. It’s all about perspective – rather than seeing my garden as overgrown; I’m choosing to see it as a secret garden! And there is no better place for a picnic for two than a secret garden – alfresco dining at it’s best!

SET AN ALFRESCO TABLE TONIGHT

 

summer alfresco dining table - hydrangea cuttings
al fresco dining for two in secret garden

One doesn’t need a fancy patio set to enjoy a romantic summer picnic – All that’s required is a quiet spot, a place to lean your elbows on, some comfy chairs, plates you love – unmatched or otherwise! – Good food and wine and great company! Candlelight doesn’t hurt either.

summer alfresco dining table - blue and white tablesetting
summer alfresco dining table - view of hydrangea and daylillies

I enjoy blurring the indoor/outdoor line by using my indoor furniture outdoors.

summer alfresco dining table - full table view
al fresco dining using humble materials
summer alfresco dining table - hidden alfresco table

summer alfresco dining table - hydrangeas on table with candlelight
My darling hydrangeas. I was surprised to see that the blooms on our shrubs were a kaleidoscope of colors this year – pinks, blues, purples – with both large and compact clusters!

summer alfresco dining table

 

summer alfresco dining table

So, do you have a Manicured or a “Secret” Garden? No matter what you have, I hope you’re able to spend some time in it before the summer’s end!


summer alfresco dining table

Thanks so much for stopping and make sure you drop by to visit some of my talented blogging friends for alfresco dining tablescape inspiration galore!


Pin for later: Alfresco Dining in a Secret Garden

Alfresco Dining Ideas
knockitoffkim.com projects

OTHER FUN SUMMER PROJECTS

Make Pineapple Decor for your Home for just $1

pineapple decor - candle holder closeup

 

Metal Plant Table Upcycle

plant table make-over

How to Make a Floral Clutch Bag in 10 Minutes or Less

floral clutch bag_pin


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22 Comments

  1. Maureen on August 1, 2016 at 10:53 am

    What a pretty little secret garden table! Love the idea of bringing the indoor furniture outside! Very romantic indeed!

  2. Bonnie on August 1, 2016 at 12:42 pm

    Hydrangeas are my favorite flower also. The spot in your secret garden is inviting. There is nothing better than the outdoors.Fruit, bread and cheese with candle light and fresh hydrangeas make a lovely ambience.
    Hey, I have the same thoughts about seeing so much that needs to be done! But I have those thoughts inside too! LOL!

  3. Pam Richardson on August 1, 2016 at 1:18 pm

    Oh, I love your romantic table in a secret garden space…how fun! I agree with Bonnie, fruit, cheese, bread, candles, and those gorgeous hydrangeas make for the perfect ambiance! Wishing you a beautiful Monday, Pam @ Everyday Living

  4. thepaintedapron.com on August 1, 2016 at 1:37 pm

    So romantic! You can't beat a candelabra and big blue hydrangeas for instant style, it's so elegant yet simple- the way you photographed it makes me feel like I'm sneaking a peak 🙂 Beautiful Kim!
    Jenna

  5. Maria Brittis on August 1, 2016 at 1:44 pm

    The centerpiece look amazing, you hit on the nail for a magical secret garden vibe! great job.
    Maria

  6. Chloe Crabtree on August 1, 2016 at 2:09 pm

    Nothing looks neglected, it looks so lovely. I really like this rustic patio area with the stones. Do you have moss growing amongst the stones? I am glad you had a break in the weather, I am waiting for that in Florida. Your table is lovely, I really like the bold color of your tablecloth and the contrast between that and the beautiful hydrangea. Who wouldn't love sitting down to a basket with bread and cheese with fruit. I can imagine sitting there enjoying the evening with my hubby.

  7. Kim Burdette on August 1, 2016 at 3:05 pm

    I love your backyard! The stone patio is so rustic and yet soft with the flowers growing in and nearby. And oh how I adore hydrangeas and candlelight! Nothing could be more romantic. There's only one problem with the whole set up…. It's not a secret anymore! Don't be surprised if some of us stop by for a little wine and cheese! (hehehe)

  8. Linda @ Life and Linda on August 1, 2016 at 3:24 pm

    A lovely secret garden with hydrangeas pleases me very much. Eating outdoors is such a pleasant experience. You can not beat candlelight, wine, cheese and bread. They compliment each other So well. Truly a wonderful secret garden to enjoy.

  9. The Little Yellow Corner Store on August 1, 2016 at 4:36 pm

    Oh you are so lucky to be able to set up such a romantic looking tablescape outdoors. The bread and cheese look as delicious as they are a beautiful element for your table. It is such a cozy setting. Have fun with the blog hop.

  10. Rita C. on August 1, 2016 at 4:49 pm

    I love your thinking, Kim – turning your garden into an inviting space, no matter how maintained or not you think it is. Your table for two looks perfect, and so does the setting. Have a good week!
    Rita C at Panoply

  11. My Kentucky Living on August 1, 2016 at 7:23 pm

    Your table setting and location are just beautiful!!!

  12. Rattlebridge Farm on August 1, 2016 at 7:58 pm

    Magical, enchanting, and beguiling. The details are exquisite. I adore this tablescape!

  13. Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality on August 1, 2016 at 8:15 pm

    How pretty this looks and what a romantic spot to linger in the dusk! Enjoyed tablescaping with you today!

  14. Carol Lander on August 1, 2016 at 9:01 pm

    Really pretty secret garden! The tablescape is a great base for the beautiful hydrangeas.

  15. Ramblings of a Southern Girl ~ Rhonda G on August 2, 2016 at 12:39 am

    Your Secret Garden is very cozy! Perfect spot for a nice, intimate dinner for two! Love the pretty hydrangeas and candelabra! My Alfresco Post is a little similar to yours… I'll be up Wednesday! 🙂

  16. Lori @ Dining Delight on August 2, 2016 at 3:29 am

    Such a pretty setting to enjoy some bread and cheese! Good call on choosing to think of your yard as a secret garden instead of one that needs some work – for sure, summer is short and dining at a lovely alfresco tablescape such as this is the way to enjoy it to the fullest. I can see this Blog Hop week is going to be fun having enjoyed your post!

  17. Lory at Designthusiasm on August 2, 2016 at 5:16 am

    What an inviting and romantic spot! I particularly love the candelabra!! Nicely done… 🙂

    Delighted to be blog-hopping with you (I'm on Tuesday's roster… ;-))

  18. Jemma@athomewithjemma on August 2, 2016 at 9:07 pm

    Gorgeous, gorgeous and more gorgeous! So elegant, I adore the outdoor setting, and the rich and vibrant layering of tablecloths.
    I hope you can share this with us at Thoughts Of Home On Thursday, if you have a moment to spare!
    Jemma

  19. Susan Duane on August 3, 2016 at 2:38 pm

    Your table is so pretty! It looks like the perfect spot for outdoor dining!!

  20. Lolly Jane on August 4, 2016 at 5:57 am

    Oh man, now I want some of that bread! Mm!

  21. Emily Cann on August 5, 2016 at 6:16 am

    Love the secret garden theme! Plus thse fruit looks scrumptious!

  22. Sarah Burnell on August 5, 2016 at 4:53 pm

    The Secret Garden was my favourite childhood read! It also says "A Midsummer Night's Dream" to me… Gorgeous!

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