Even after a rainy yucky week, the sun somehow managed to muster up the strength to shine in Seattle this weekend. It was a little overcast at times, but spring was in the air, birds were singing, and I wore flipflops to walk to the mailbox (and to get some coffee, of course).

All this thinking of spring and our garden has me so excited for some outdoor entertaining. We have a big backyard, and though we don’t have a whole lot of design control over it as renters, it’s in pretty good shape for pulling out the bbq and having friends over once it starts getting warmer.

To get in the mood, I tracked down some of my favorite outdoor party inspiration to share with you (and a little project I hope to tackle soon!)

From blog Brabourne Farm

From tumblr blog Red Morning

With a rustic table and chairs, floral fabrics, some flowers and fresh food, getting the party started will be easy! As night falls, some twinkle lights or simple lanterns will keep the party going well into the evening.

Design*Sponge just featured this simple diy for a rustic tablecloth made of IKEA dishtowels. Simple and chic and right in line with the season:

From design*sponge

Makes me want to whip up a mini version for my little IKEA table I bought last year for my patio. This year it will look great out in the backyard, but this could be just the new look it needs. Remember my antique tablecloth from last summer?

I just can’t wait for spring to arrive!

Do you ever entertain outdoors in the spring or summer? What are your go-to tricks?