Summer is such a fun time to entertain because it’s a more laid back, casual time of the year. Setting a fun and easy table makes it fun for your guests and creates a fun atmosphere when there’s a little theme involved.  You know, the type where you don’t have to go buy a lot of things and just use what you have and do-it-yourself? Here are two fresh alternatives using the same dishes, and place settings. All I did was switch out the decor.

When life gives you lemons…

I started with a basic neutral theme using a natural color scheme of neutral cream, black and white.

• For the centerpiece I used a Magnolia garland and some faux lemons, but you could use real ones if you have enough on hand.

• I made napkin rings with wire, florist tape and paper flowers all purchased at Michael’s. Just make a 1 1/2-2 inch circle with wire, wrap it with green florist tape then hot glue the flower of your choice, super easy!
• Jazz up your glasses by threading a thin ribbon through a little paper doily and tie it around the glass. You can also write your guests names on them as a place setting ID and keeping track of glasses. Add some fun straws too. They just make it more whimsical and fun!

• To dress up the candle holders, I tied a large wired ribbon around them and added a matching flower from the napkin rings

And that’s a sweet, fresh summer table..

Simple summer nights by the sea

This theme is inspired by the beach of course. Same dishes and table settings, just new accessories.

• For the centerpiece, I used a round cutting board as a base, filled a lantern with some sand and starfish & coral. Just sprinkle a little sand on the board and add a few tealights .

• I placed a starfish at each plate and put a little clip on chalkboard to write names or summer words on
• The utensils were placed in a little burlap pocket I made. Cut 2 pieces of burlap into rectangles sized to fit your utensils. Hot glue or sew around the 3 edges leaving the top ope and fold a little piece of the front back to make a fold. To make the flowers, I just twisted strips of burlap then coiled them up attaching with glue as I went along. Glued a few pearls on them and that’s it. Although, seashells would have been really cute, but this is what I had …remember simple is the word! I’ve used them for several occasions~( Check my post on my daughters 18th birthday) and they’ve held up well! 

Resources:

Plates and utensils from Southern Living at Home years ago!

Bowls from Laurie Anna’s Vintage home

Glasses from Crate & Barrel

Napkins from Pier One

Chargers from World Market

All craft supplies from Michael’s

Happy entertaining and as always, let me know if you have questions!