Watch how I create a gorgeous outdoor bohemian tablescape using items I have on hand! You can apply these table setting tips to any informal table setting. Video included showing my step-by-step design process from start to finish–including how to make a simple DIY pallet table!
Press Play: How to Create a Boho Pallet Table Setting
Our current stay-at-home order is providing a LOT of quality family time, but all good things in moderation, right?!🤪 Matt and I desperately needed a night “out” away from the kids, so I created a boho chic date night spot outdoors using what I had on hand. Today, I’ll walk you through my table setting design process from start to finish using only “shop the house” techniques. I do realize that because of my job as a decor stylist blogger, my “shop the house” may be a bit more stocked with table setting supplies. Rest assured that in this blog post, I give you numerous obtainable, relatable, and affordable ideas!
Tip 1: Layer it up! Create casual, cozy, and relaxed seating.
The boho style is all about creating a casual, relaxed and cozy space with lots of textures and layers. Start with a base layer of rugs, throw blankets, and/or sheepskins and add toss pillows for seating. Use a pallet table, coffee table, or ottoman as your dining table. Go ahead and watch my video above to see how I created this very simple pallet table in just a matter of minutes! You can see in the photo that I propped my table up on blocks because I made the legs too short for my 6’3″ husband. Oops! I recommend making your table height around 16 inches. This allows most people to sit on pillows around the table comfortably. I plan to fix the legs soon, but remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful! Just make it work. 🙂
When choosing toss pillows from the house to sit on, I looked through my collection of pillows and grabbed a few that I thought looked cute together. Just mix and match patterns, textures, and colors until you like the look. There are no hard fast rules here!
Toss pillow source links from left to right: Pottery Barn Denim pillow covers / World Market Macrame pillow / World Market floral napkins sewn together to create quick pillow covers
Tip 2: Set the mood! Add romantic lighting.
Candles, twinkle lights, and outdoor string lights all help set the mood. If you don’t have any outdoor lights, use a strand of Christmas lights. My candle candelabra chandelier graced the front porch in our last home, and I hadn’t yet found a place for it at our current home. It now looks great hanging in the gazebo and adds the perfect romantic touch!
Tip: To create your own candle chandelier, use a second hand chandelier, remove the wiring, spray paint it black, and replace the lightbulbs with candles.
I also added a few silver taper candlesticks to the table. Grab some votives, candle sticks, lanterns, or mini LED lights to add some instant romance!
Tip 3: Faux is the way to go! Use faux flowers if obtaining the real deal isn’t an option.
Obtaining flowers right now may be tricky. I often use clippings from the yard, or a mix of faux and real flowers. For this table, I used faux peonies from Pottery Barn. You can click the link to shop! These are the most realistic looking peonies I’ve found, and you’ll see them pop up frequently in my spring photos.
Tip 4: It’s all in the details! Make it special by adding a few additional touches.
I love adding small and unexpected touches to every table. Getting creative with your linens and napkin rings is an easy and inexpensive way to make your guests feel special. Place something special on top of each plate such as a sprigs of herb, cut flower, piece of fruit, or printed menu!
Table sources: Plates / Flatware / Napkins / Glasses (similar)
Tip 5: Keep food casual with charcuterie boards!
I love to nibble on a charcuterie platter! Load up a few cutting boards or trays with dried fruits, nuts, cheeses, olives, fruits, cured meats, tapenades, baguettes, and crackers for a fun and easy to prepare meal.
Place dipping sauces or wet ingredients in small bowls on your trays.
Thanks for stopping by! I hope this post inspires you to create your own Quarantine Date Night!
If you liked this post, check out my other spring table ideas below!
Beautiful & Chic Boho Outdoor Table Setting
Urban Picnic: 8 Small Backyard Entertaining Tips
Mother’s Day Table Setting in Lavender and Pink
My Affordable Patio Furniture and Outdoor Decorating Tips
Easter Bunny Spring Table Setting
Spring Table Settings: How to Create a Gorgeous Spring Table
AJ says
Charming & Romantic
Beth says
Thank you!
Anne Robinson says
Beth is has been a very long time since I Have seen you here. I am sorry I did not participate in A to Z. I enjoy seeing the various posts. Have a beautiful day and stay safe and healthy, It was nice to see you.
Beth says
Thanks for stopping by Anne and for taking the time to comment!