A beautiful outdoor table doesn’t require matching dinnerware or a florist on speed dial. The team at ARC Restaurant at Vancouver’s Fairmont Waterfront shares eight nature-inspired outdoor table setting ideas, using loose florals, fresh herbs, beeswax candles and personal details to create a gathering that feels special without feeling overworked.

1. Choose Loose, Garden-Inspired Florals

Choose florals that look freshly foraged—think wildflowers, vines and other more “nontraditional” picks. Avoid overly manicured arrangements, and instead opt for loose, asymmetrical bouquets that mimic how plants grow in nature.

Photo by Evaan Kheraj

2. Add Fresh Herbs to Your Arrangements

Fresh, green herbs add depth to the decor while providing a wonderful scent for the diners (Arc Restaurant typically uses fresh basil and mint because of their added fragrance).

Photo by Evaan Kheraj.

3. Mix and Match Vases and Planters

Arrange flowers in small glass vases of varying style and size to keep the aesthetic looking organic. Herbs in terracotta pots give the arrangement a natural appearance.

Looking for more tabletop inspiration? See 9 Holiday Tablescapes We Love

4. Choose Locally Grown Flowers and Herbs

Buy your flowers and herbs from local florists and suppliers: you’ll be supporting local businesses, and you’ll often be able to showcase flowers native to your locale.

Photo by Evaan Kheraj

5. Layer Wood, Stoneware and Natural Textures

Consider wooden boards and stoneware plates to create a rustic, organic foundation. Rattan, wooden or woven table mats add texture, and scattering the table with foraged elements like moss, seed pods and fresh lavender creates an immersive forest feel.

Photo by Evaan Kheraj

6. Set the Mood With Beeswax Candles

Consider nestling bees wax candles among the flowers and herbs—these add great ambience to the evening while providing a more natural light when the evening gets darker. (At the Fairmont Waterfront, candles are also a nod to the hotel’s bee program and onsite hives.) Use candles of different heights to add greater depth to the table’s aesthetic.

7. Keep Guests Comfortable and Conversation Flowing

Keep centrepieces and decor low to the table to promote conversation. Explore what can be done with lighting to add further ambience—Arc Restaurant opts for string lighting above the tables to create a magical environment. If you’re planning a late-summer gathering, consider adding heaters for warmth once the sun sets.

Photo by Evaan Kheraj

8. Personalize Each Place Setting

Offer personalized menus to match your guests’ dietary requirements. This makes each diner feel truly welcome. Add each guest’s name to their menu—these can then double up as place cards (and save you from using extra paper).

Photo by Evaan Kheraj

READ MORE:

Kristi Alexandra

Kristi Alexandra

Kristi Alexandra is the managing editor, food and culture, at Canada Wide Media. She loves food, travel, film and wine (but most of all, writing about them for Vancouver Magazine, Western Living and BCBusiness). Send any food and culture-related pitches to her at [email protected].