People have so little time, they want to relax as often as they can. The outdoor environment has become just as important as the indoor environment. Because outdoor furniture has become more sophisticated, with a wide range of styles, fabrics, colors and designs, it has become easier to choose patio furniture that reflects the host's lifestyle. An oyster roast on the marsh or a beachside barbecue can be enlivened with stylish, comfortable tables and chairs that encourage guests to relax and stay awhile. Vibrant plastic tableware, adorned with beach themes or bright patterns, tends to be popular for casual summertime gatherings.
Fresh flowers can add a splash of color and an air of festivity and abundance to the occasion.
When it comes to creating the proper mood for an event, Wendy Johnston, owner of La Belle Maison and an ASID interior designer, believes that lighting is a key consideration for the Southern table. It sets the mood. People like to see their food, but not necessarily with overhead lighting. Instead, Johnston suggests getting creative with lighting, using combinations of candlesticks, outdoor torches, globes or floating candles. Johnston explains that the rules for decorating a formal table are quite different than those for creating a more casual event.