By Janet Collazo

Enjoying the outdoors is one of the highlights of the summertime season. It is the perfect time to catch up with family and friends with an intimate and memorable setting. #romantichomes
A bistro table is perfect for an intimate get-together where conversation is the order of the day.

Enjoying the outdoors is one of the highlights of the warmer months. It is the perfect time to catch up with family and friends with an intimate and memorable setting.

Dream up beautiful decor and an easy menu to keep things casual and stress-free. And if you already have a garden, terrace or patio, then these five tips will help with your own intimate and effortless garden entertaining.

Looks for lacy details in vintage linens and floral motifs in antique china to recreate the look of old wold elegance. #romantichomes
Looks for lacy details in vintage linens and floral motifs in antique china to recreate the look of old wold elegance.

1. Create a theme

I wanted my table to feel inviting and that conveyed old world romance. For me, nothing says old world romance like vintage linens and china. They are my go to when classic and gracious living come to mind. I love the freedom I find in mixing vintage and delicate floral patterns. They bring an irresistible allure that is hard to achieve with modern dinnerware.

Two's company and three might just be a crowd when entertaining at a bistro table. For this intimate garden-inspired setting, it provides just enough space for food and drinks. #romantichomes
Two’s company and three might just be a crowd when entertaining at a bistro table. For this intimate garden-inspired setting, it provides just enough space for food and drinks.

2.Decide the number of guests

One of the first things you will need to decide is the number of guests that you will invite. That will determine how large of an area you will need for your gathering. Since I was planning for intimate get-together for two, I knew I could set my table by my much loved bistro set which is set in an area of our garden that is surrounded by green lushness and natural beauty.

For personal comfort and to ensure the freshest flavor of your food, choose a shaded spot before you set up. #romantichomes
For personal comfort and to ensure the freshest flavor of your food, choose a shaded spot before you set up.

3. Find the right spot

Choosing the perfect spot in your garden is the first step in planning your get-together. Find an area in your garden that looks inviting, pleasing, and that keeps your guests away from direct sunlight. I have a favorite area in our garden that is flanked by trees, hydrangeas and offers the perfect open air backdrop that invites one to relax and take in nature. It is enchanting this time of the year and provides plenty of shade.

For a casual garden entertaining, there's no need to spread a full meal. A fruit and cheese plate with a variety of options is perfect for snacking. #romantichomes
For a casual afternoon visit, there’s no need to spread a full meal. A fruit and cheese plate with a variety of options is perfect for snacking.

4. Decide on a menu

The food and drinks are equally important. Since my main goal was to enjoy my company, I decided to serve a cheese course. It allows everyone to help themselves and you won’t have to play server. I made a lovely and refreshing peach sangria as our signature drink. I filled a decanter with the left over sangria and kept it nearby which made refills a cinch.

Stacked on an antique book and a bundle of hand-written letters for added height, this arrangement of fresh hydrangeas is perfectly suited for a simple and elegant event. #romantichomes
Stacked on an antique book and a bundle of hand-written letters for added height, this arrangement of fresh hydrangeas is perfectly suited for a simple and elegant event.

5. Use florals from your garden

For a casual garden setting, I like to use flowers that are seasonal and have a just-picked feel. Since hydrangeas are in full bloom in our garden, they were the ideal flowers to create an effortless arrangement. To add character and romance to your arrangement, use a silver-plate pitcher as your vessel. You can easily find them at thrift stores or flea markets these days.

Janet Collazo shares tips for entertaining, home styling and cooking at her blog, Rosemary & Thyme. Stop by for more inspiration with a floral, vintage twist!

Garden, Janet Collazo, Outdoor Entertaining