8 Tips for Setting a Beautiful Summer Table

Summer is the best time to set a pretty table outside or even in for the whole family and friends! I absolutely love a good meal at a beautifully set table and how the conversation continues well past the time that the plates are empty. Today I would like to share with you a few simple tips for setting a beautiful table for summer and creating that warm inviting atmosphere for your guests. These easy and essential tips will help you prepare a beautiful table and make a fabulous party to enjoy the warm summer evenings!

1. Choose a theme. I always find it easier if I choose a theme and a color palette. No matter how large or small the gathering, setting a theme will impress your guests and will also help you to create a consistent look from start to finish. Make sure you choose a theme that represents your personal style or the season you’re in – floral, nautical or tropical themes are always a hit.

2. Use fresh flowers for decoration

The best part of summer is being able to cut fresh florals from your own yard and use them to design a beautiful table. A rainbow of flowers cut at various heights paired with bold paper cups and napkins makes for an eye-catching outdoor table. Fresh flowers are always nice to have on the table. Remember to keep them reasonable in size. If they’re too bushy, it’s hard to see and talk to each other through them.

3. Serve various refreshments and keep them cool. Keep bottles cool in a colorful, striped galvanized tub filled with ice, mix up some homemade lemonade, and serve with fresh lemon slices.

4. Bring color to the table via cloth napkins. Put two napkins in different colors or patterns in one napkin ring to give each setting a colorful pop.

5. Large glass mugs and large glasses are the best bet for informal dining. Anything can be served in them, from water to wine, soft drinks to orange juice, everything will look great.

6. Provide individual condiment dishes, and salt and pepper pots for each person to make it easier for them to flavor their food.

7. Provide spoon rests for each dish in a buffet setting.

8. Freely mix and match what you have. Don’t always use the same set of dishes, glasses, silverware, etc. Just because it’s part of a set doesn’t mean you have to use it all together. Be creative!