Styling a Summer Alfresco Dining Experience with Neptune
A warm evening, good friends and delicious food are three key ingredients for the perfect summer alfresco dining experience. Inspired by the opportunities to gather outdoors, and approaching our gardens as an extra room in our home, we’ve looked to Neptune at Redbrick and their store manager, Louise Moylan, for the elements that will make the experience special from the very moment her guests arrive.
Can you share your journey with us? We’d love to know more about you and how you found yourself working in interiors, and with Neptune.
Absolutely. My background is quite varied, but every chapter has played a big part in shaping my love for interiors. I originally worked in retail fashion, which gave me a strong eye for detail, luxury and styling - all of which naturally translate into the world of interiors. After that, I spent several years as cabin crew, and along the way I found myself inspired by the beautiful interiors I experienced in hotels, homes and cultures.
The turning point came when I bought my second home and had the chance to design the interiors. It sparked something in me, I realised just how much I loved creating spaces that felt both beautiful and personal. So, when it came to a career change, I knew exactly which direction I wanted to take.
The opportunity to manage Neptune at Redbrick came at just the right time. Since joining, I've been proud to lead the store and team through a significant transformation from an outlet to a full priced store. Along the way my passion and knowledge for interior design has deepened, especially when it comes to understanding how thoughtful design can completely elevate a space.
Neptune are known for their attention to create an easy, welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. Could you share your top tips when entertaining guests in a casual and relaxed outdoors setting?
I think the beauty of outdoor entertaining is in its simplicity and sense of ease. It's about creating a space that feels relaxed yet considered, where guests instinctively feel welcome and want to stay a while.
Start with low table displays so guests can see each other and chat easily. Comfortable seating is essential, add cushions and throws so people feel relaxed enough to stay for hours.
As the evening draws in, candlelight or soft outdoor lighting creates a beautiful atmosphere. I love using scented candles too, they add to the ambience, help keep bugs at bay as well as smelling divine.
Finally, set a simple yet inviting tablescape. Something natural and unfussy that makes people want to sit and embrace the atmosphere. Think soft linens, a few sprigs of herbs or foliage, beautiful crockery and elegant glassware, reflecting nature's colour palette.
We love Neptune’s emphasis on timeless design. With this in mind, which Neptune pieces would you immediately think of when styling your summer table outdoors?
For a timeless summer table, I'd always choose the Cheltenham dining set - its regency style design and green striped cushions feel classic yet fresh. I would layer with the Emily linen tablecloth in salt for a soft, relaxed look and style using Sennen crockery with its beautifully ruffled, handcrafted finish. Or perhaps look to our Bowsley crockery range for its gently distressed, rustic style.
Adding in the Primrose Green carafe and bistro glasses, as well as the Raynes green hurricane vase for texture and gentle colour. Finally, I would complete the setting with pieces from the Ashcroft collection - placemats, napkin rings and bread basket - to bring a natural warmth and artisanal charm to the table.
How would you effortlessly add additional elements of summer to your table styling to make it truly individual?
To make a summer table feel truly individual, I love using seasonal fresh produce - fruit, veg and herbs not only look beautiful and add seasonal colour, but I also like to tie them in with what food I am serving. I believe adding colour and texture is key too. Polenta, Neptune’s colour of the season, is a perfect summer addition bringing warmth and that golden, sun-soaked feeling. Lastly, soft linens are my go-to summer fabric of choice; they instantly add a relaxed summery feel.
Can you share with us what is on your aspirational summer menu – food, drink, and playlist?
I like a relaxed approach to summer entertaining, with dishes laid out for everyone to help themselves. A few of my favourites are: Watermelon, Feta & Mint salad, Roasted Veg & Halloumi Skewers, and Roasted Aubergine with herbed yoghurt and pomegranate. I'll often add a chilled pea, mint and little gem salad, with some meat from the BBQ too. To finish off I love serving Peach & Thyme Galette with creme fraiche and a drizzle of honey. It feels effortless but always gets compliments.
As for drinks, an elegant Elderflower and citrus spritz always goes down a treat and compliments the dishes.
To compliment the atmosphere, I enjoy listening to a laid-back summer playlist. Artists like Norah Jones, Ben Howard, Etta James and John Mayer, or instrumental covers with acoustic vibes. It's about creating an easy, breezy backdrop that compliments good food and conversation without ever taking centre stage.
