Summer is in full swing, and what better way to enjoy the sunny weather than by spending as much time outdoors as possible? Many places with outdoor terraces are still not fully operational, or you may not feel entirely comfortable dining with many people around you. We figured we'd discuss throwing a small gathering at home alfresco style, making the most of your terrace, backyard, or a garden nearby.

The term al fresco comes from the Italian language and loosely translates "in the fresh air." Dining alfresco is not your regular picnic on the blanket — this type of dining usually involves elegant tablescapes and a generally more party vibe atmosphere. We picked some beautiful candles to create an escape both olfactory and visually.

First and foremost, an ode to Italy – Fornasetti candles. Encased in beautiful porcelain vessels, these candles are essentially a scented art element and a conversation piece for any outdoor dinner; a variety of scents to choose from, each will transport your guests and make quite a statement.

For a sensory garden escape theme, Ortensia is a stunner. It takes inspiration from the hydrangea shrubs that grow in the Via Bazzini garden at the Fornasetti estate in Milan. On one side, the face is camouflaged in the Ortensia leaves. On the other side, the quintessential Fornasetti quirkiness resurfaces; the face is unnerved that a bee has landed on its nose. Benevolent? Malevolent? It reminds us of savages observing explorers in an exotic jungle. Flora is inspired by the lush flowers filling the gardens that envelope the Fornasetti house in Milan. 'Flora di Fornasetti' is a voluptuous mélange of floral, green, and woody notes, including ivy, lily of the valley, iris, jasmine, tuberose, sandalwood, and musk.

For an effortless California vibe, go with Etat Libre D’orange You, or Someone Like You, created by Chandler Burr, a best-selling NY Times critic. What you get is 185 grams of perpetual palm trees, chlorophyll mint, and a peaceful blue sky that serves up a garden rose. Anything becomes possible in California or anywhere else where there is the "possibility in the blue air."

Haven't been to the French countryside for a while? No worries, light up Maison Francis Kurkdjian La Trouverie and you feel like you are there. "A farmstead located deep in the French countryside of Le Perche, La Trouverie was the stage for my carefree escapades, games of hide-and-seek, building wood cabins, and chasing butterflies. This candle reawakens my childhood memories through its sweet aroma of fresh straw that tickles the nose, mingling with lavender and flirting with rosemary and thyme." FK

If you find yourself dining in windy places and burning a candle is out of the question, you could set up a beautiful diffuser or two depending on the length of the table and the size of your brunch gang.

CULTI Thé Diffuser is a refreshing blend of zesty bergamot, aromatic tea, and centering woods. The fragrance will softly add an olfactory tune to your gathering, creating a beautiful atmosphere without overwhelming your senses or overpowering the delicious aroma of the food you prepared.

We wish you a beautiful summer season ahead and to finish on a great and delicious note, we have a cocktail pairing to go with La Trouverie candle.

Enjoy and sip responsibly!