Photographer: Read McKendree | Stylist: Mieke ten Have

As an artist turned self-taught decorator, Whitney McGregor has always had a passion for beautiful spaces and inspiring environments that nurture the soul. Before studying fine art and plein air painting in Provence, she attended a liberal arts school where her focus was on sculpture and hand building. Her classical training and love of antiquities still informs her aesthetic today. Having recently been called a "grand millennial" by The Wall Street Journal, a label she has proudly adopted, Whitney seeks to honor tradition, geography, and the existing bones of each home she touches. She works closely with her clients to build and collect each layer of every space.

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Whitney has a great eye for layering patterns and combining old with new for a totally fresh take on established traditions like outdoor dining. We recently caught up with Whitney to get a few expert tips on creating the perfect outdoor dining experience.  While we all love the idea of outdoor dining, practically speaking it can be . . . well . . . more challenging than it looks. Whitney’s tips for enjoying outdoor entertaining while making the setting look like a pinterest board follow.

Photographer: Laurey Glenn

Tip #1:  Beat the heat (and the bugs)

Dining al fresco is such a romantic thought, I know!  And if you live in California, it's a beautiful experience!  But in South Carolina summer evenings can be buggy and muggy.  

This time of year, a screened porch is ideal for outdoor entertaining. Otherwise, keep the fans running to keep bugs at bay and everyone cool and comfortable.  

Preparation is always key to ensure the guest can relax and enjoy.  Having all food prepped in advance and plenty of chilled beverages is key to being able to sit back and enjoy the company.

Tip #2: Choose Uniform Seating

In the past, I have rented tables and chairs for outdoor dinners if I need to seat a large group.  It's fairly inexpensive and it's nice to have a cohesive arrangement when you're entertaining outdoors.  Nature is wild and beautiful on its own- I like the tables and chairs to be quieter and uniform.  

For instance I like to build a foundation with all the same matching chairs with neutral tablecloths.  And then sometimes I'll layer my own tablecloths over the top of the floor length ones provided by the rental company.  I tend to like round tables aesthetically but also love a long banquette table because it's so intimate and great for conversation. 

Photographer: Laurey Glenn

Photographer: Read McKendree | Stylist: Mieke ten Have

Tip #3:  Embrace The Perfection in Imperfection

This time of year, I can pull together florals and cut branches from the yard to make beautiful centerpieces at no cost.  Splurge on renting furniture for a cohesive look and save by cutting flowers and clippings from the yard for decor. 

When planning events for the outdoors, perfection needs to be put aside.  There will always be something unexpected when it comes to natural settings. But a relaxed and prepared host with a good sense of humor and a fondness for spontaneity will  set the tone for the entire gathering. A host that is comfortable and at ease makes for guests that are too.  Take people up when they ask if they can help, invite them into your kitchen- it makes guests feel at home.