5 Summer Table Setting Ideas to Steal

Set Out Some Succulents

“They last way longer than flowers do,” says Jenni Yolo (@ispydiy). She bought terra-cotta pots in different sizes, spray-painted them Satin Pink Taffeta by Krylon, then filled them with a variety of plants. When the party was over, everyone took one home!

Make a Cool Vase

When Liz Joy (@purejoyhome) threw this party for friends, she says, “The pineapple centerpieces stole the show.” To recreate the look, scoop out the fruit, and add water and a mix of bright flowers. (A blend of large and small blooms has the most impact.) Secure the pineapple top with a metal skewer.

Go Big on Citrus

Lemons, oranges and grapefruits add a splash of color to this table by Amanda Gluck (@fashionablehostess). She halved some of the fruit to mix up the look, then pulled it all together with eucalyptus and lemon leaf garland. The finishing touch: leaf place cards pinned to fresh lemons on each plate.

Mix High and Low

Shelly Dozier-McKee (@confettistyle) stacked melamine plates from HomeGoods on heirloom wedding china and chargers she found at estate sales. Then she kept with the theme by placing patterned paper napkins over solid cloth ones. The runner is just a piece of fabric folded under.

Get Personal

You can elevate any meal by giving guests their own little cast-iron pots. “Even baked beans feel fancy in mini Dutch ovens,” says Elizabeth Van Lierde (@college_housewife). Try varying other elements, too: She served corn muffins on a pizza peel and used beer bottles as vases.