There’s something magical about setting a table outdoors, especially when your location includes an epic view of Mt. Rainier. I headed up to visit my longtime friend Brittany for a girls weekend. We had planned a summer here and she dropped the idea of a tablescape dinner at her parent’s backyard, and of course I had to say yes!
Suddenly an outdoor becomes more than a place to share a meal — it’s a way to frame nature, invite conversation, and create an experience your guests will never forget watching the sun go down, the clouds dissipate and the glow of the mountain – if the PNW weather cooperates which it did for us!
Whether you’re entertaining in a backyard, garden, or somewhere with a sweeping mountain view, here are my best tips for setting a table that enhances the scenery without competing with it.
1 – Frame the view
Position your table so guests face the mountain (especially the guest of honor).
My outfit: Jacket and pants by Tuckernuck, and shoes by Maje.
As you can see, almost everyone gets a great view of the landscape. This table seats 8 and I found an indian block print tablecloth on Amazon with a variety of color ways. Finding a tablecloth to fit this size table was a challenge to me, especially for one that I liked!
2 – Keep the palette soft
When you’re hosting with a backdrop as breathtaking as Mt. Rainier, the key is to enhance — not compete. I also love layers. I used my placemats that are coated and custom embroidered I bought from Scottsdale Marketplace, layered with the Nito chargers. I love these woods dinner plates and I can use my cabbage bowls with them! The deer napkin rings are a thrift find and after asking for permission, cut some springs off an evergreen tree on the property. Texture! The hemstitch linen napkins are from Amazon. Flatware is so unique and though they look heavy, are a medium weight.
3 – Keep florals low
You want the view in the background, not blocked by your centerpiece. These Lucia Rectangular Vase with Frog is so elegant with the fluted glass! Get a few to line across your table!
Hosting outdoors doesn’t mean sacrificing elegance — it means working with nature, not against it. ✨
4 – Plan for golden hour
The light shifts fast — candles, string lights, and lanterns bring the magic.
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