With summer approaching, our thoughts turn to alfresco dining: here's a roundup of our outdoor essentials (for more ideas, go to Simple Summer Table Setting).

Above: Janet's nomination for indestructible summer drink ware: the Acrylic Double-Old Fashioned and Cooler are dishwasher safe and cost $2.95 and $3.50, respectively, at CB2.

Above: Francesca likes the 100 percent linen Blue Stripe Tablecloth for summer dining; $88 from Terrain.

Above: Julie stocks up on bistro-style flatware; the Gingko Le Prix Flatware is available in several colors and costs $44.70 for a 20-piece flatware set (service for four) at Amazon.

Above: For sipping wine outdoors, we like the classic French bistro wine glass from Picardie; a set of six is $21.25 at Design Within Reach.

Above: Christine's favorite bowls for serving summer salads are American Beech Hardwood Bowls; $38 to $180, depending on size, from the Vermont Bowl Company.

Above: The Wide Mouth Juice Jar from German company Weck can be used as a refrigerator-to-table container for homemade iced tea, coffee, or juice. A set of four 7.25-inch-tall jars is $24 at Terrain (rubber rings and metal clamps included).

Above: Janet is devoted to the Skala Serving Tray from Ikea; made of clear lacquered solid birch, it measures 17 inches in diameter and costs $14.99.

Above: Recycled Glass Lanterns are ideal for summertime illumination; $9 each at West Elm.

Above: Sarah is partial to the Emile Henry Urban Pitcher for water service. Handcrafted from local clay in Burgundy, the pitcher is available in several colors, including nougat and slate (shown above, L to R); $46 from Emile Henry.

Above: For garden lighting, Sarah uses commercial-grade heavy-duty Outdoor String Lights (54 feet long with 24 medium-base sockets); available in white, black, or green; prices start at $99 at Sival Lighting.