How To Set a Simple Yet Stunning Summer Table

Summertime is filled with ample opportunities for celebrations, get togethers, hosting and parties. It’s also a great time to decorate your table just because, for the everyday. Who says table settings are just for special occasions? You don’t really need a reason to set and decorate your table.

Setting and Decorating

One thing to keep in mind as you are setting and decorating your table is: you can easily change out small details on your tables to create a new look, which will change the interest as well. Keep the foundation/ base the same and decorate with small details. Doing this will not only save you time but also keep your table setting looking fresh and new.

Using Color

Your color scheme doesn’t always need to be “matchy, matchy” but do avoid too many distracting or clashing colors, patterns and tones. Play around with them to see how they work against or with each other. Using a white backdrop is a good place to start. A white linen tablecloth is a must since you can always build up from there.

Mix & Match

Mixing the old with the new creates an ambiance of charm and whimsy. Don’t be afraid to bring the outdoors in. Collect branches, rocks, flowers, driftwood, seashells and so much more to be decorated with. I like mixing my old terracotta pots with my newer pieces to give an old world charm and sophistication. Placing branches or sprigs of greenery from your garden or yard onto plates or napkins can be fun too. Add a little twine and it looks refined. I also like to mix and match paper plates, napkins or even plastic cups with my dishware and cutlery. It’s a fun way to add interest as well as keeping it more affordable. Storing paper goods is a lot easier than storing a whole new set of dishware.

Avoiding Height

Overly bushy floral arrangements or centerpieces that are too tall can block the view of guests across the table. If you are hosting a dinner party, be mindful of where you are placing decorations. For tall decorations, think off the table and use surrounding furniture to hold taller, bushier decor. Depending on how fancy the dinner party is you may want to consider using the space above guests heads, maybe hanging things from the ceiling to drape down towards the table stopping before they block guest view.

Change Locations

Dining outdoors is one of our favorite things to do. You can see our deck dinning post here http://therefininghome.com/deck-dining/ Any time the weather permits from Spring all the way through late fall (and sometimes even in the winter) we are dining outside. Don’t be afraid to move your outdoor dining table around the yard finding the perfect shady spot or background. You might want to try out a low dining table with pillow seating. Get creative! Picnic on a mountain or hill top, on a beach or in the desert. When dining outdoors don’t forget to use throw blankets on the back of chairs or draped over benches for cooler nights. Remember lighting as well. When the sun sets and the stars come out, make sure you have ample light for the conversations to continue well after the sun goes down.

Layer, Layer, Layer!

Think of your tables as layers. The foundation is your tablecloth, table runners, placemats- most of your linens. I find that having several quality, durable fabrics with your linen collection that you can use time and time again is key. For example, I have a white linen tablecloth that I can use for any season and any color scheme. I can also use it indoors and outdoors. Then I can use holiday themed napkins or placemats to add some pizzazz! Try mixing it up with patterned paper as your table runner. You can find our favorite patterned wrapping paper here: https://allwrappedupgiftwrap.org/

Next layer is your base which consists of your dishware, crockery, cutlery, stemware. Keep in mind what you are serving and only place the dishware needed for the event. Placing extra pieces could cause confusion or frustration for your guests. Then layer your decorations for the season, theme or occasion- this includes your centerpieces. Keep it charming, not too distracting. And last but not least don’t forget about the finishing touches layer. This would be place cards and your seating. Tying a mini wreath to the back of the chairs, try adding the place cards to the back of the chairs or add a cushion to bench seating.

We hope this helps you create simple yet stunning tablescapes all summer long.

Much Love,

Joleen & Jess