Celebrate Fall With an Apple-Themed Outdoor Get-Together

Why settle for a blanket and basket when setting up a table and chairs would make your guests feel super special and much more comfortable. Find a scenic setting in a valley, a grove of trees, an orchard or even a quiet corner in your own backyard. Use a lightweight or folding table and chairs to create the wow-factor without the heavy lifting.

Add a whimsical fall touch to the back of each chair with this simple-to-make apple chair swag. Use an upholstery needle to thread small apples onto jute twine, then tie onto chair backs. Add a few wreaths of coordinating ribbon to really up the festive anty. Tip: Once apples are no longer in use for decorating purposes, use them for applesauce or pie filling.

Bring some coziness to the table by swapping a plaid blanket for a traditional tablecloth. A fuzzy blanket is fitting for fall and saves purchasing extra linens, plus any spills or stains can be easily cleaned by throwing the blanket in the washer. A patchwork quilt or a plaid piece of fabric would stand in nicely as well.

Don't worry about a fussy, formal centerpiece for this informal picnic. Plop some seasonal flowers in a Mason jar and scatter fall fruits, like small pears and berries, around the table. It's a little thing that adds a lot to the overall look of the table.

Don't be afraid of mixing plaids, checks and prints. Just keep your pattern selections in the same color family for a cohesive look. An eclectic mix of patterns creates a casual and homey feel that guests will appreciate. Tip: Tea towels are excellent to use for oversized napkins and can be found in a variety of prints and patterns.

In addition to the table and chairs, bring a small, lightweight piece to use as a sideboard. A piece like this antique washstand, with a hollow interior, can also help with storing and transporting food and tableware. Wooden crates are also fantastic for this.

There's something special about using place cards at a get-together, even one as informal as this one. Create this place card just by tying a cute tag onto an apple stem at each place setting. A few sprigs of fresh herbs add a little color and fragrance, too.

One of the best tricks for creating a beautiful table setting is to vary heights. Line the center of the table with pedestals, taller vases or bottles, and spread a few shorter objects around and under the taller ones.

Bring whatever chairs are easiest to transport and don't worry if they don't match. The mismatched look will set a casual tone for the picnic.