Build the Perfect Summer Entertaining Space: 8 Tips From a HomeGoods Style Expert

As the primary gathering space, a tablescape can set the tone of your get-together—so making it memorable is a must. Jenny Reimold, tabletop guru and HomeGoods style expert (you can check out her tips and tricks on Instagram) suggests getting creative: "Set the stage with several table runners placed vertically along the table, or consider draping a blanket or Turkish towel diagonally across a larger surface as an alternative to a table cloth," she says.

Once you’ve laid the foundation; create a festive place setting. Jenny's seven-layer place setting formula works for "any occasion this summer," she says.

To recreate it, start with one or two chargers as anchors. Then, add a large hobnail plate with another melamine or ceramic plate on top. After that, Jenny suggests layering in a seasonal dish towel in place of a napkin. Finally, add a coordinating salad plate; a small dish, bowl or bread plate; and a name card or seasonal accessory.

Dish towels aren't just for drying! Instead of using napkins in her place settings, Jenny offers a creative alternative: "I consistently use dish towels as napkins...layering [them] in between dishware so it drapes off the center of the setting," she explains.

She suggests using towels with fringe, pom poms or designs to add pops of color while incorporating a seasonal theme.

Don’t forget to top off your entertainment space (including your place settings!) with your own style for a one-of-a-kind feel."Incorporating small personalized touches to place settings, like fresh fruit or brightly patterned bowls, is an easy, budget-friendly way to make your tablescape feel more intimate and special," Jenny says.

Jenny’s signature design tip is simple: Repurpose what you already have to elevate your entertaining space—the best part is it’s budget-friendly. Here, she used ceramic kitchen canisters as vases and wooden crates as displays for drinks and other party items. "By turning [the wooden crates] upside down, they serve as height on the tabletop with food, florals or decorative accessories," Jenny says.

Summer parties aren’t just for adults—kids want to have fun too! "An important part of entertaining is keeping the kids occupied," Jenny says. "I like to design a space just for them." Put together a tent or create a fort area away from the rest of the party so the kids have their own, special place to play.

It’s no secret: Hosting isn’t always easy. "With everyone home during the summertime, my mission is to find ways to make hosting easier on myself," says Jenny, who suggests creating a one-stop-bar-cart-shop filled with snacks, drinks and other party necessities that guests can grab. Feeling ambitious? Theme-up your bar cart up! Above, Jenny created a s'mores bar, perfect for a backyard camp out with kids or a neighborhood bonfire.