The holiday season is all about celebrating with loved ones, and what better way to do that than by hosting a delightful outdoor feast? An outdoor dining table can transform your space into the perfect gathering spot for family and friends to come together and make lasting memories. In this quick guide, we’ll explore the various options available to help you find the ideal outdoor dining table for your festive celebrations.
Heights: Setting the Stage for Your Gathering
The height of your outdoor dining table is a crucial factor in determining the atmosphere of your holiday gathering.
Dining Height: Standard dining height tables are around 28 to 30 inches tall and are perfect for formal holiday meals. A dining height table sets the stage for a traditional sit-down dinner where guests can enjoy a delicious feast while engaged in meaningful conversations.
Chat Height: Chat height tables, typically around 23 inches tall, are designed for more casual gatherings. These tables are perfect for intimate conversations over a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of mulled wine. They create a cozy and relaxed atmosphere that encourages guests to linger and chat.
Counter (Balcony) Height: Counter height tables, usually around 36 inches tall, offer a versatile option for both dining and casual gatherings. These tables are great for hosting a buffet-style holiday meal where guests can easily mingle and help themselves to the delicious spread.
Bar Height: Bar height tables are the tallest option, typically around 42 inches tall, and are ideal for cocktail parties and social gatherings. They create a lively and energetic atmosphere, perfect for clinking glasses and sharing laughs.
Materials - Where Durability Meets Style
The material of your outdoor dining table plays a significant role in its durability and overall aesthetic.
Wicker: Wicker tables, available in both synthetic and natural options, offer a timeless and traditional look. They are perfect for creating a polished holiday setting where guests can gather around and enjoy a hearty meal. Synthetic wicker is especially durable and weather-resistant, making it a great option for covered or uncovered spaces.
Cast Aluminum: Cast aluminum tables are heavy duty, won’t rust like steel does, and easy to maintain. They are a great option for impromptu holiday gatherings as they can be easily moved and set up. Their designs can be sleek and modern, or more ornate with traditional touches, adding a touch of sophistication to any outdoor space.
Teak: Teak is known for its durability and natural beauty. A teak table adds an element of elegance to your outdoor space and is perfect for hosting a grand holiday feast. The natural oils in teak wood help to resist pests and rot, ensuring your table will stand the test of time.
HDPE or MGP: High-density polyethylene and marine-grade polymer tables are eco-friendly options that are resistant to weather, stains, and UV rays. They come in a variety of colors and styles to match any aesthetic.
Finding the Perfect Fit
The size of your outdoor dining table is another important consideration. You want to ensure that your table can comfortably accommodate all your guests while also fitting within your outdoor space.
For 2: A table for two is perfect for intimate gatherings and romantic holiday dinners. Imagine a cozy setup with a small table, twinkling fairy lights, and a delicious meal shared between two people.
For 4: A table for four is ideal for small families or close friends. It provides a cozy and comfortable setting for holiday gatherings, where everyone can enjoy a festive meal and engage in meaningful conversations.
For 6: A table for six is a great option for larger families or gatherings. It offers ample space for everyone to enjoy the festivities and make lasting memories together.
For 8: A table for eight is perfect for parties and celebrations. It provides enough space for guests to comfortably enjoy a grand holiday feast while also mingling and celebrating together.
For 10+: A table for 10 or more is ideal for grand celebrations and events. It provides ample space for guests to mingle, enjoy delicious food, and create cherished memories together.
When selecting the size of your table, consider expansion tables that can accommodate more guests when needed. We carry brands such as Royal Teak, Lloyd Flanders Frontier, and Daybreak that offer a range of expansion tables that are both practical and stylish. Additionally, drop leaf tables are a great option for those who want the flexibility of adjusting the table size for smaller spaces.
A Table for Every Style
The shape of your outdoor dining table can greatly impact the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space and the atmosphere of your holiday gathering.
Round: Round tables are a classic and versatile option. They create an intimate and cozy setting, perfect for small gatherings where everyone can easily engage in conversations.
Square: Square tables are a modern and contemporary option. They generally seat 2-8 people and are ideal for small to medium-sized gatherings and create a chic and stylish atmosphere.
Rectangle: Rectangle tables are a traditional and popular shape. They seat 6 at a minimum, so are suitable for larger gatherings and grand celebrations, providing ample space for everyone to enjoy the festivities.
Oval: Oval tables are a unique and elegant option. Similar to a rectangle, they are perfect for grand celebrations and events, adding a touch of luxury to your outdoor space.
For those who want something different, there are also more unusual shapes such as hexagons and octagons available. These shapes are perfect for those who want to make a statement and create a unique and memorable holiday gathering.
Expressing Your Style
Finally, the aesthetic of your outdoor dining table should complement the overall style of your outdoor space and reflect your personal style.
Rustic: Rustic tables add warmth and charm to your outdoor space. They are perfect for creating a cozy and traditional holiday setting, where guests can gather around and enjoy a hearty meal together.
Traditional: Traditional tables add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your outdoor space. They are perfect for both intimate gatherings and grand holiday feasts.
Transitional: Transitional tables are a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. They are versatile and suitable for any occasion, adding a fresh and stylish touch to your outdoor space.
Contemporary: Contemporary tables are modern and trendy. They are perfect for those who want a sleek and sophisticated look for their holiday gathering.
Modern: Modern tables add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your outdoor space. They are perfect for those who want to make a statement.
Time to Celebrate!
When it comes to hosting the perfect holiday gathering, an outdoor dining table is a must-have. With the right height, material, size, shape, and aesthetic, you can create a welcoming and festive atmosphere that your guests will love. For help in planning the perfect patio setup for your family and friends to make wonderful memories this holiday season, and for years to come, visit us online or at one of our Porch + Patio Store locations. We’ll be happy to help make your holidays a bit brighter!
