African Table Setting Ideas for a Summer Dinner Party

Summer is here and we can finally gather in small groups for (socially distanced) outdoor entertaining. Plus, you might be itching to spend quality time and share a conversation with others over delicious meals. To help you achieve a chic and flawless evening, read on for some African table setting ideas and general tips you will be sure to find both useful and inspiring. Outdoor gatherings can be casual and laid back or formal and fancy. You can opt for a buffet style arrangement or a sit down meal with a full table setting and plated meals served to your liking. Today, we are highlighting how to create an overall summer dinner experience that your guests will never forget. And, it will run on the spectrum of fancy but not too formal and uptight.

Find the perfect table location

The location of your table is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle when it comes to entertaining. So scan the whole backyard or park for the right spot. Try to position your table depending on the time of day and how the sun is shining. For example, you might want to set the table under a tree for some shade if the hot sun is beaming down heavily in other areas. If there are no trees in your backyard, consider getting am umbrella for some shade. The point is to have all your guests sitting comfortably and without being too sun exposed.

Select a wax print tablecloth or table runner

A tablecloth can really make or break your table setting altogether. So, you really want to be careful with your choice and that includes everything from the fabric’s colours to even its texture. It is always a good idea to go with cotton for your African table setting because it is light, breathable and easy to manipulate. For this, you can use some versatile wax print fabrics of your liking which could fit into the colour scheme that you want to create. If the colours are too bold and you want a more subtle appearance, simple layer with a table runner in a solid colour to even out the entire look.

Spice it up with some floral arrangements

Thanks to HelloGorgeousFlowers, I was able to source an arrangement of dry flowers and plants for this table setting. Going for a rustic, outdoor look we decided that too many flowers in clashing colours would not be appropriate since the table cloth itself had a bold print. I wanted to keep it subtle, yet inviting at the centerpiece, while opting for a pop of yellow for each place setting. When done right, flowers can take your African table settling from zero to one hundred really quick. Contact your local florist to find out how you can kick things up a notch when it comes to your table setting. Remember to discuss the theme, colours, number of place settings, budget and delivery options.

Go for a rustic feel with decorative wooden accessories

Most African table settings are known for having a rustic feel that is often achieved with a lot of wood and wooden accessories. I decided to incorporate that into this setting with the use of wooden coasters and placemats made out of bamboo fibre carefully paired with cutlery in a colour that matches. Of course, you do not have to go this route if it does not appeal to you but if it does, feel free to experiment and have fun with it. Small wooden accessories such as carved animals, woven baskets and other natural pieces could also make for great decorations that will leave your guests feeling extra special. Depending on the size, you can use them as a centerpiece or position them where each guest will be seated.

Prepare some of your favourite African dishes

The table is not complete without the meals. It is a sit down dinner afterall. There are some really interesting things happening in the culinary scene when it comes to African and African American cuisine with lots of places you can look to for inspiration. The four-part Netflix docuseries, which is named after and based on Dr. Jessica B Harris’ book High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America is powerful as it chronicles the contributions of Black people to American cuisine. You can glean some recipes from this series to make for your guests which would also spark some great conversations around the dinner table.

Go for classic, timeless tableware or get playful

When it comes to tableware, there are really no defined rules. You can go for a classic, timeless look with white ceramic dishes or play with a varied palette of colours and textures for added drama. And the same thing applies to the drinking glasses and cutlery arrangements. However, keep your guests in mind all through these ideas as you create your perfect African table setting and before you know it, they will all be blown away by the creativity and artistry you’ve invested into hosting the perfect summer dinner party!

Jamila Kyari

I’m a seasoned communications and marketing consultant with a penchant for all things stylish and chic. Follow me on social media and subscribe to the newsletter for regular updates on industry trends and much more!

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook