It's that time of year to linger outdoors with family and friends,
enjoying long days and balmy evenings.
The house doesn't need to be perfect - chances are you'll spend most of your time outside. Meals are usually lighter, fresher (with the abundance of vegetables and fruits) and simpler (anything that can go on the grill).
There are some easy and affordable ways to
create a welcoming summer table setting...
1. Mix and match seating for a charming and comfortable outdoor space.
I combined a chippy wicker arm charm, picnic bench, vintage dining chair and bench settee for this table that can seat six comfortable and eight "cozily."
2. Collect vintage white plates, linens and serving pieces.
You can find unique cloth napkins at antique shops and thrift stores. I have a collection of linen, embroidered and damask white napkins that I use over and over again. I recently found the napkins pictured below at a thrift store for $.50 a piece... and they are in perfect condition!
And when it comes to dishes, nothing says "fresh" or shows off food like white.
3. Add whimsical lighting.
Globe lights, Edison bulbs or white string lights provide a cheerful,
"light-hearted" atmosphere after the sun goes down...
4. Use seasonal flowers, herbs and/or greenery for centerpieces and place settings.
Fresh lavender from the garden not only looks pretty but smells so good! If nothing is in-bloom, branches and greenery can be used for a touch of nature. Coupled with candlelight, even the simplest elements look beautiful.
5. Bring a little bit of the indoors outside.
Since there's not as much worry about rain this time of year, bring a few items outdoors for added interest and comfort- like old books (to give your centerpieces a lift), and even a throw pillow or two.
Before you retire an area rug from your home, try it outside on a porch or deck. I brought the rug, pictured above, from our entryway out to our back porch. A rug that may look tired or worn indoors, can breathe new life into an outdoor space.
