The Chic Outdoors: Day 2

Today's outdoor entertaining design is all about tropical and exotic elegance. Event design is not always all about tabletop decor; for an outdoor soiree, check out West Elm's  outdoor accessories like their Ikat and lotus outdoor pillows and paisley rugs to dress up your patio for a global-chic appeal. These worldly designs are a great alternative to classic nautical or preppy inspired summer decor, a whole lot more unique than the typical shabby-chic English rose garden look, and will transport your guests to some sultry exotic locale where there are no hula skirts and tiki torches to be found.

Set the tone with some mood lighting - select an assortment of hurricanes, votives and lanterns like West Elm's Woven Hurricanes and  WS home's Lynn Lanterns. When it comes to candle light, the more the better!

Keep your tabletop simple but add one little touch - like these cute Gold Fish napkin rings available only at Pottery Barn Stores. And keep it elegant with William Sonoma's DuraClear outdoor glassware (durable AND sophisticated!).

Serve up a global meal with Southeast Asian inspired Satays or Middle Eastern Kebabs, Moroccan Lamb Tangine with Tomatoes and Carmelized Onions, Baklava with Rose Water and Tea Granita and let the Cava Sangria flow!