Shatterproof Style for Outdoor Entertaining

Here at Outside Rein, we can be a tad sensitive to over-enthusiasm when it comes to equestrian-themed decor. While it’s hard to pass up a vintage horse print artfully decoupaged by John Derian onto a handblown glass tray, we’ll usually detour around a set of custom coffee mugs or placemats advertising the likeness of our favorite pet.

Still, finding appropriate moments to apply the decorative hints of an obsessive pastime is a challenge we gladly embrace. Therefore, with the melamine craze at full throttle and plenty of outdoor meals on summer’s horizon, we wondered if we would be able to set a table that is shatterproof and tasteful, yet allows for some horsing around. For those new to the resurgence of mid-century melamine, it’s a durable, food-safe alternative to fragile dinnerware that lends itself perfectly to dining al fresco. Below we narrow down five of our favorite equestrian-friendly serving pieces, each paired with three complementary pattern options for mixing and matching (along with whatever your cupboards can lend, of course!). From full dinner sets and acrylic glassware to chargers and platters, we hope these BPA-free and dishwasher safe designs inspire a striking vignette of your own. Perk: The chances of a party foul are limited.

Bon appétit!