8 Al Fresco Entertaining Must-Haves

When the warm weather arrives and we crave the summer sun, daily activities and dining naturally transition from indoors to outdoors. Eating outside at restaurants is a surefire way to catch some sunshine, while enjoying the comfort of the backyard can be equally relaxing. Dining al fresco can be elevated and easy with the right serveware, whether you’re having a picnic in the park, a backyard cookout, or enjoying brunch on the patio.

Here are eight game-changing serving pieces you need to create an elegant al fresco experience.

1. Water Carafes

 
On a warm summer day it’s important to stay hydrated. When entertaining guests outside, having water available is a must. Get creative with seasonal fruits and prepare infused water in a Glass Carafe. This refreshing touch will not only be appreciated by guests, but makes a beautiful beverage displayed on the table. 
 
2. Water Jugs/Pitchers

Save multiple trips inside for refills by using a White Water Jug or Handthrown Pitcher. Made from white European clay, these elegant pitchers are designed with a single handle for ease of serving and can hold your favorite outdoor beverage.

3. Farmtable Planks

Please a crowd by displaying everything together on a Farmtable Plank straight down the center of the table for easy serving. Made from reclaimed wood and finished with a 100% plant-based, food safe hard wax, this plank provides plenty of surface space for serving up an epic charcuterie spread or your favorite homemade recipes. Why dirty multiple serving platters when you can use just one and clean up in half the amount of time?
 
4. Mini Charcuterie Boards

Picnics just got an upgrade with Mini Charcuterie Boards allowing you to ditch paper plates and create less waste. Elevate your picnic with personalized colors and charcuterie spreads for each guest. Whether a picnic in the backyard or in the park, these boards are the perfect size to toss in your picnic basket and serve on under a shady spot beneath a tree. 
 
5. Domes and Cloches

Cover up your famous homemade recipes with a glass Dome or Cloche. Keep warm and protect food from the elements between servings without worry. When guests are ready for seconds, easily lift from the hand-forged round iron handle for a beautiful presentation.
 
6. Silverware Caddy

 
Provide guests with all the serving utensils they'll need in one place by filling up a Silverware Caddy. Easily carry from the kitchen to your patio with a convenient iron handle. Al fresco entertaining is elevated with this effortless storage tool.
 
7. Glass Canisters

Minimize dishes and keep fresh by prepping and serving in elevated glass canisters. Prepare recipes the night before like pasta salad in a sustainable Classic Wood Top Canister and bring straight to the table for serving the next afternoon. Once guests are finished, simply conceal the canister with the gasket tight lid and store in the fridge for a later meal. 
 
8. Rectangle Serving Tray

Transition from the kitchen to the patio effortlessly with a lightweight Rectangle Serving Tray. Adorned with round iron handles, these trays provide an easy way of transporting what you need for your al fresco meal with less trips to and from your kitchen. 

Photo Credit: Alea Moore Photography