Cozy and Thrifty Summer Table-scape: Invite Warmth into Your Outdoors

This cozy, thrifty summer table-scape was so easy to throw together yet so warm and inviting!

Hello friends! If you are hopping over from Bre at Rooms for Rent then welcome! Today I’m sharing a cozy, thrifty summer tablescape tips that will hopefully inspire you to have your own outdoor get together!

You can find all the details about the front of our home here, but as I was taking pictures of our backyard patio area, I realized that I have never shared it on the blog before. I’ve shown it quite a few times in my Instagram stories, but I have never felt like this area was social media worthy or blog-worthy. Isn’t that silly?

Yes, there is still so much I’d like to do out here including a shed makeover, window boxes, shutters for the windows, the list goes on and on. But when we moved in, there was nothing more than a small, 4×4 concrete slab, so we truly have come a long way, and for that I am so grateful!!

We DIY’d this entire space with the help of Mike’s parents, and I just love how the pea gravel creates that classic cottage feel. We planted simple, low maintenance plants like hosta and catmint around the tree and off the patio. I just can’t wait until everything blooms!

Let me walk you through some tips for a beautiful yet simple, low budget table. 

Cozy, Thrifty Summer Table-scape Tip #1 – Lighting

My first tip in order to create a cozy vibe would be to incorporate lighting. We purchased these string lights to hang in the tree above the table, and I personally feel like they make our patio space so much more cozy!

l also lit some simple pillar candles to bring warmth to the table itself. Little details like lit candles can change the whole atmosphere of your space.

Lighting makes such a huge difference doesn’t it? The soft glow in the evening makes the entire space feel magical – I wanted to stay out there forever. Plus, a glowing lantern makes such a beautiful table centerpiece on any outdoor tablescape!

Cozy, Thrifty Summer Table-scape Tip #2 – Yard Clippings

My second tip is a thrifty, no extra cost one – use clippings from the yard to bring life to the table! Fresh flowers makes for a beautiful tablescape!

We have a beautiful lilac tree next to our house that is absolutely gorgeous this time of year. Why not take advantage of the lovely blooms and clip some for your table? 

Whenever I feel like a space is lacking something, fresh blooms or stems make such a world of difference. The smell of these lilacs is just amazing – I wish you could smell them through the screen!

I chose to place my stems in a small vase that would fit inside this old, galvanized watering can. It was a windy night, so I put some large rocks inside the can to weigh it down. 

Cozy, Thrifty Summer Table-scape Tip #3 – Trays

My third tip for an outdoor table especially is to use trays. It makes it so much easier when you’re carrying everything out from inside! And when it’s time to pack up, you throw everything on the tray and it’s one convenience trip instead of 5. 

33rd Floor Decor sent me these metal trays a few years ago, and I love how they contrast with our DIY rustic table. 

Cozy, Thrifty Summer Table-scape Tip #4 – Keep it Casual

Another tip for creating a cozy, thrifty summer table when you’re trying to save money is to keep it casual. Don’t feel like your table settings, placemats and dishes have to match perfectly. 

I chose to use mismatched Ikea dishtowels for napkins, and I think they help to make everything feel less formal. 

The same goes for the tarnished silverware, the old watering can and the copper lantern. Three completely different metals yet somehow all together they feel whimsical and cohesive. 

Cozy, Thrifty Summer Table-scape Tip #5 – Shop Secondhand

My last and final tip for creating a low budget table-scape is to check your local thrift stores for treasures!!

The lantern, plates, glassware and silverware were all second-hand finds! I also see trays and large, flat baskets at thrift stores all the time that would work so well for outdoor entertaining.

Sometimes when we have company over I think we feel as though everything has to be new and perfect. Where is the fun in that?

Thrifted treasures can sometimes be the perfect conversation starter. Think outside the box and look for items that have patina, character and warmth. 

I hope you enjoyed my cozy, thrifty summer table-scape. I have so many ideas for this space…

Can’t you just imagine our little shed with white barn doors and windows with flower boxes? Maybe a stone pathway that leads to more flower beds along it’s side and a small white pergola with climbing rose off the front?? HA!! 

A girl can dream, can’t she?? I truly am grateful for how far this space has come 🙂

Be sure to check out all of the beautiful summer inspiration that my friends are sharing below!

What are your tips for creating a cozy summer table?

Rooms for Rent | Pine and Prospect Home | Ella Claire | Modern Glam

Maison De Cinq | Boxwood Avenue | Crazy Wonderful | Jenna Kate at Home

Willow Street Interiors | Amber Tysl | Sincerely Marie Designs | Paint Me Pink

Zevy Joy | Shabby FuFu

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