Easy Backyard Entertaining

Get Creative With Your Table Setting

Worried your dinner table will look like a four-year-old's birthday party if you use paper plates and plastic utensils? These no-fuss decorating ideas will help keep your table charming―and charmingly disposable.

• For a centerpiece, elevate the simple to the sophisticated―literally―by placing fruit and just-picked blossoms on shoe or small gift boxes that have been covered in white gift wrapping.
• Cut yellow wrapping paper with pinking shears to craft a runner. (Use double-stick tape to secure the runner to the tablecloth.)
• A plum will weigh down a place setting on a breezy night. And forget place cards: Use a marker to write each guest's name directly on the paper tablecloth.
• White-dot stickers from an office-supply store add a playful touch to the yellow table runner.
• Cupcake foils make elegant disposable votives.
• Tie down the tablecloth and runner with twine so they don't blow in the wind.