How to set the ‘nearly perfect’ summer dinner table

As much as I love to host parties and setting the perfect table, I realize over the years that my guests could care less about my perfect table and more about me and the people around it. I assuming that the same holds true for the people around your table as well.  And although I don’t crave perfection any longer, I do want a table that is comfortable, casual and pretty to sit at. So I have assembled some of my favorite tips on how to set the ‘nearly perfect’ summer dinner table.

  How to set the ‘nearly perfect’ summer dinner table

Tip 1

Choose a color or item and work what you already have around, into that. No need to over think this one.  The sunflowers were going gangbuster in the garden so I used them for my inspiration. I then found things around the house that complemented the color such as the bowl of lemons and the navy and white table runner….which is actually wrapping paper.

Tip 2

Personalize it. It doesn’t have to be fancy just something that reflects you. I used some 20 year old white napkins that I had, and had a friend monogram our initial. Other ideas for personalizing it could include pictures, favorite tableware or vases. Speaking of which, these cute little glass vases are actually Patron Tequilla bottles that I have saved through the years. They are the perfect size to put on the table and used as a takeaway for your guests with some blooms.

blue banded plate/cake stand/ striped paper

Tip 3

It’s okay to buy store bought, and display it as if it was baked by you. It is no secret that I don’t navigate well in the kitchen but that doesn’t mean that I don’t buy baked goods and put them on the table as if I baked them myself. Get them out of the box and put them on something pretty. These smaller cake plates from here are perfect to scatter on the table with different treats on them.

Tip 4

People say you are what you eat and I say…… your table is an extension of  who you are so set it that way. My friends and family would freak out if  they came to my table and I set it with fine china, fancy linens and had forks and spoons all in the proper position….because that’s not me. I actually don’t have fine china or fancy linens, but I do have white plates from Pier 1 that I bought many years ago that I like to pair up with various colors.  I bought some red and green melamine chargers a few years back at an after Christmas sale and always throw some spray paint on them to change the color. The blue banded plates were purchased for less then $1.00.

And finally, make your guests feel at home. Create a table that is cozy and makes your guests feel comfortable and relaxed. Scatter a few pillows and throws around on chilly nights, light some candles, pour some beverages…… and the conversation will continue for hours. And if you are like my friends….hours and hours.

Cheers!gratefulfor great friends

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