At this time, we may not be able to host large gatherings with friends and families, but this doesn’t mean you can’t set your summer table. Growing up my mum always set the table, whether it we were having one of her amazing dinners or Chinese take out. We always had fresh flowers from the garden, a crisp table cloth, and candles. This was something I looked forward to every night and now that I am out of the nest I try to maintain some of these same nightly traditions.

With this in mind, I thought I would share my five must haves for setting a summer table…

#1 SET THE TONE WITH A TABLECLOTH

Think of your table cloth as the first layer. This is where you establish your color palette and it is a great opportunity to add pattern.

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#2 PERFECT PLATES

I typically opt for crisp white plates because they go with everything.

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#3 CUTLERY

Invest in a good set of cutlery.

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#4 FLORALS IN THE MIDDLE

Center your table with one large vase or a variety of smaller vases filled with fresh seasonal flowers.

#5 GLASS HURRICANES

A pair of glass hurricanes are perfect for anytime of year, but especially in the summertime. Include a pillar candle and add a bit of sand for a coastal touch.

Image 1) Pinterest, 2) @indiaamory instagram, 3) wedgewood.com, 4) nantucketlooms.com, 5) Pinterest, 6) simonpearce.com

With all of the challenges that we have faced over the past few months, we can all agree that time with family and friends is more valuable than ever. As we step into summer I find myself missing family gatherings. I crave time spent enjoying good wine and food with loved ones, and the urge to entertain is stronger than ever with the current warmer weather and long sun filled days.

My hope is that our carefree gatherings and fun will return sooner rather than later. In the meantime, I thought I would share inspiration for your next summer table.

Over the past three years I have participated in Boston’s Heading Home to Dinner. The event brings members of the Boston design community together to raise money and awareness for Heading Home Inc. This wonderful foundation is devoted to helping low income families and individuals with housing, food, and other resources to get back on their feet.

Now more than ever, we need to help those in need. Please join the Boston community and #shareyourtable in support of Heading Home. Visit www.headinghomeinc.org to donate. You can also join us for this year’s #Pause4Peace on September 29th, for an opportunity to tune in for a live video of the past three years and donate.