Host a Casual, Outdoor Spring Lunch

For a fresh take on spring entertaining, forget traditional pastels. A playful mix of tangerine, hot pink and trendy textiles create an edgy backdrop for this alfresco soiree.

When entertaining outside in close proximity to other homes, privacy is king. You may not notice right away, but these freestanding planters help add seclusion to the entertaining space. Weighted down by cement-filled buckets inset with wooden planks, the planters are also affixed with galvanized metal pipes to create curtain rods for hanging outdoor drapes. To help camouflage the lumber, the planks are painted the same color as the deck and topped with low-maintenance plants.

Create a visual separation between the outdoor living and dining spaces with indoor-outdoor area rugs. Stick with similar styles in the same color palette to keep the overall look cohesive but not matchy-matchy.

Can't find a tablecloth in the exact size and color scheme you want? Make your own! All you need is a drop cloth and water-based paint to get the look. Make this watercolor tablecloth >>

Springtime weather can be unpredictable. For guests who optimistically dress light, offer warm, color-coordinated throws draped over dining chairs just in case a breeze sets in.

Since spring is all about fresh flowers, it's the perfect time of year to experiment with DIY centerpieces. This mixture is packed with cut flowers, greenery and branches from blooming trees. When mixing different species, such as tulips, roses, dianthus and forsythia, stick with a solid color scheme to prevent the overall look from becoming busy.

A layered effect of color and texture always does the trick on a spring tablescape. For a well-layered look, the watercolor tablecloth is accented with seagrass chargers and a mix of plates in white, gold, pastel blue and spring green. The cloth napkins tie the varied textures and hues together.

Keep the overall fare and decor casual and fun, but add a small touch of formality by using more elegant flatware in gold or silver tones.

It's difficult to know if your guests are going to prefer standing or sitting once they arrive to your gathering. Take the pressure off and guarantee care-free dining by serving simple finger foods. Should guests decide to take a seat, these can easily be passed around the table. But if everyone opts to mingle around the patio, the food is lightweight and easy to hold during conversation.

Keep food light and easy for you and your guests by serving a family-style spring salad. Keep food allergies and dietary needs in mind by adding protein either on top of the salad or on the side. To accommodate varied tastes, put dressing options in small serving containers.