Easy Outdoor Serving Station

Make entertaining outdoors easy by creating a simple serving station that can be set up in minutes!

Except for the hottest of days, my family practically lives outdoors during the summer. So needless to say, that is also where we entertain guests during warm weather. Doing dishes isn’t high on my list of things to do when company comes calling or we’re having a family BBQ in the backyard. I am ALL about disposable serving items.

This easy serving station is something I can keep set up and stock with paper/plastic goods all summer long and everyone can help themselves to what they need. I can even add condiments at meal times so that things are all in one place.

And you would not believe how simple it was to make!

Start with some crates. I found these lightweight crates at Old Time Pottery.

Add some paint if you wish, to give them more character. I used Americana Decor Outdoor Living paint in Turquoise Sky from DecoArt. It is meant for items that are going to be outdoors.

I only painted the insides of the crates and kept the outsides plain. You can paint, stain, or leave the crates as is. Stain and paint will act as protectors of the wood. If you choose to leave them plain then you probably want to add a wood sealer to protect them from the weather.

Stack crates to maximize serving space. Mount them on a wall, or glue them together with epoxy.

Fill the serving station with plates, cups, napkins, cutlery, straws, condiments, and anything else you might need for your family and friends prior to your cookout or gathering. Restock as needed.

I’m sure you can find other ways to use this serving station when guests aren’t over. Such as a bubble station for the little ones, or a place to set up some flower pots.

However you decide to use it, this serving station will be a great addition to your outdoor space!