Place cards are usually associated with weddings and formal dinners, but they can be just as useful for a relaxed lunch outside. They give everyone a place at the table and add a small personal detail without requiring much decoration.

For an outdoor table, the surroundings can provide plenty of inspiration. Leaves are an easy example. Larger, firm leaves can be written on and placed directly on a plate or napkin. Herbs such as rosemary or bay can also be combined with a small paper name tag.

Fruit works particularly well during summer. A peach, lemon, pear or small apple can hold a handwritten label and later become part of the meal. Choosing whatever is in season keeps the idea simple and makes it easy to adapt throughout the year.

Traditional paper cards still work outdoors too. They can be tucked underneath cutlery, tied around a napkin or attached to a small object so they stay in place when there is a breeze.

There is no need to create something elaborate for every guest. Handwriting names on leaves, luggage-style tags or small pieces of card is enough to make each place feel considered.

Place cards are especially useful when a picnic becomes a larger lunch or celebration. Instead of guests deciding where to sit when they arrive, the table is already organised and couples, families or different groups can be mixed if you want everyone to meet.

They can also double as a small detail for guests to take home. A handwritten tag, pressed leaf or simple personalised card is easy to keep after the lunch.

For a casual outdoor table, the best ideas are usually the simplest ones. Something seasonal from the garden or market can be enough to turn an ordinary place setting into one prepared for a particular guest.

Looking for more natural ideas for the table?
Discover Herbs as Part of the Table →

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