Throw a Southern-Style Summer Party

Invite friends to celebrate summer with decor and music reminiscent of a hot afternoon in Savannah, Ga. Using a palette of pinks, soft whites and creams, host a Southern-style party that's full of vintage touches and traditional treats.

By: Camille Styles

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Photo By: She-N-He Photography

Material World

Finding the perfect tablecloth can be a challenge without breaking the bank, so why not head to a local fabric store to find a beautiful pattern at an affordable price? Here, pale pink linen is cut right from the bolt, then topped with a piece of sheer lace that matches gauzy, white curtains.

Pretty Pieces

If you don't own a set of heirloom china, a party is the perfect excuse to start a collection; the more mismatched the better! Each place setting includes a dinner plate, a salad plate and a saucer, plus a cherry-filled teacup featuring a flag of each guest's name. Silver flatware, a vintage handkerchief and a delicate champagne coupe top off the look.

All in Bloom

The last element of the table design is the floral centerpiece. Any abundant combination of pink and white blossoms will fit perfectly with this theme. Thanks to Ash from The Byrd Collective, this table is filled with stunning peonies, orange blossoms and gardenias.

Cocktail Hour

When throwing a Southern-style party, a cocktail that incorporates that quintessential Down South beverage, sweet tea, is essential. The signature Savannah fizz cocktail combines simple syrup, sweet tea vodka and champagne with fresh blackberries and mint. Just make sure you make enough for seconds ... and thirds. Get the recipe >>

Seasonal Favorites

Nothing says "summer in the South" like juicy watermelon, and a big, fresh slice is the perfect way to offset a menu full of decadent sweets. Find a fresh watermelon a few days before the party, then slice, cover and refrigerate the day before.

Raising the Bar

This thrifted bronze bar cart creates the perfect spot to display the party's dessert buffet.

Sweet as Pie

A Southern-style party calls for a certain set of lovable and traditional treats. Fitting menu items include individually-sized portions of fresh fruit tartlets, banana pudding, lemon meringue pie and pecan pie. Get the recipes for our Savannah dessert menu here:
Banana Pudding Parfaits
Lemon Meringue Tartlets
Pecan Pie Tartlets

Have a Hanky

A simple way to incorporate Southern elegance to your buffet is with vintage handkerchiefs. Since the handkerchiefs are small, place one on top of the other, then pull the center through a silver napkin ring. The different combinations of detailed floral prints and embroidery look beautiful grouped together.

Classic Takeaways

No Southern hostess would dare send her guests home empty-handed. These charming jam favors are a breeze to make and are perfect for the warm-weather season. In just a few simple steps guests can go home savoring the sweet tastes of the party. Get the instructions >>

Throw a Southern-Style Summer Party

Related To:

Shop This Look

Material World

Pretty Pieces

All in Bloom

Cocktail Hour

Seasonal Favorites

Raising the Bar

Sweet as Pie

Have a Hanky

Classic Takeaways

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