11 Must-Haves to Make Outdoor Dining More Enjoyable

Give yourself a license to grill, anytime, literally anywhere, with a portable BBQ. Whether you throw a steak on the backyard barbie, or bring your barbeque to the beach to roast some marshmallows, this little grill will ensure you’re the toast of summer soirees! Berghoff Portable Tabletop BBQ, Indigo Books, $345.

Read more: Backyard Ideas to Turn Your Outdoor Space Into a Staycation Paradise

When dining outdoors, and carrying plates in and out of the house, you’re likely to drop and smash a plate or two (or three or four). Invest in a chic melamine set that doesn’t scream shatterproof, like this minimalist option. It’s so beautiful, you might find yourself eating off of it indoors, too. Mason Melamine 12-Piece Dinnerware Set, Pottery Barn, $156.

Hostessing certainly keeps you on your toes, especially when guests have you slinging cocktails all night long. Make life a little easier on yourself and set up an outdoor bar, stocked with everything guests will need to mix their own martinis. Riviera Bar Cart, Monika Hibbs Home, $529.

Read more: 14 Outdoor Dining Space Ideas for the Perfect Summer Staycation

Save yourself multiple trips between your kitchen and yard with a stylish tray. It can also play double duty as a coaster for glasses, and makes clean up quicker too! Norr Tray, Goodee, $125.

Nothing boils our blood like a glass of warm white wine. Keep your vino perfectly chilled with this insulated bottle and tumbler set. It’s chic enough to be kept out on a table, and portable for picnics or beach days. It also makes a great summer hostess gift! OUI Insulated Wine Bottle and Tumbler Set, Indigo Books, $50.

Read more: 10 Trendy Outdoor and Indoor Hammocks for Maximum Relaxation

Upgrade mealtime and keep your outdoor dining table looking its best with these eco-conscious linen placemats and napkins. Mix and match colours for an elevated dining experience. Going green has never looked so good. Napkin Set, Maison Tess., $30, Placemat Set, Maison Tess., $25.

Don’t get left out in the dark before dessert even hits the table! Create ambiance and fill your yard with a gorgeous soft glow with these unique hanging globes. They hold their charge for hours and hours, and their unique design allows them to be hung or placed just about anywhere. Bolleke Lamp, Spruce Toronto, $159.

Read more: 15 Outdoor Lighting Ideas to Brighten up Your Backyard or Balcony

The difference between a good hostess and a great hostess is all in the presentation. This Himalayan salt plank elevates not only the flavour of a meal, but the thrill as well. It can be heated on a grill for fish or meats, or chilled for serving fresh fruit. The unique sweet and salty combo will have guests begging for future invites! Himalayan Salt Plank With Holder, Williams Sonoma, $70.

You wouldn’t let anyone steal a fry off your plate, so why are you letting a fly steal your entire plate? Buy a few mesh covers to quickly and easily keep food covered (it’ll save you from swatting at flies and dashing food to and from the kitchen). Creative Co-op Mesh and Wire Cover, Wayfair, $43.

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There’s nothing like the “buzz, buzz, buzz” of a mosquito to signal a major buzzkill at a BBQ. Before guests arrive, light a few citronella candles and place them spaced out around your table. You’ll create a “safe zone” around the food, no nasty repellant sprays required! YYCH Citronella Candles, Amazon, $21.

A good gust of wind can set an outdoor dinner on its side, so you’ll want to consider what elements of your table are likely to take flight. A napkin holder with a weighted arm (or even a decorative stone set atop), works wonders (and ensures you’re ready for any spills the dinner throws at you!). Farmhouse Napkin Holder, Amazon, $20.