It isn't any secret that I LOVE to set a pretty table.  I love table linens, dishes, glasses, silverware... if it involves entertaining, I am in.  I thought it would be fun to give you guys some examples of ways you can set a beautiful summer table.  These tips will come in handy whether you are having a couple of friends over for dinner or hosting a large party or shower.  I had a great time using some things from my own collection as well as things we offer in the store.  

My first tip for achieving an interesting and beautiful table is to mix old and new.  I love mixing my vintage finds in with new decor items.  For this table I used a beautiful vintage table cloth, vintage brass candlesticks and my vintage silverplate.  

The white and green color pallet is so warm and inviting and was perfect for showing off gardenias and Queen Anne's lace from the garden.  

My next tip is to not be afraid to mix different shades of white and off white.  For this table I mixed old and new plates.  The off white vintage floral plates sit atop the large white chargers and each place setting got a fresh gardenia to make things extra special.  

Mom and I have had a great time collecting mix and match vintage brass candlesticks. We enjoyed them on the Christmas mantel last year and many of you gave them good homes during the holiday season!  If you are trying to think of other ways to use these beauties, I think it is a cute idea to re purpose these candlesticks as flower vases.  All candlesticks won't work for this but some have hollow centers that allow the flower stems to slide down.  While there is no way to keep the flowers in water, they will stay pretty for a few hours, long enough for you and your guests to enjoy during dinner.  

The next table is much lighter and casual.  I still used my vintage silverplate  for fun but mixed with more casual everyday dishes.  The zinnias and pittosporum were cut from my dad's yard and look so good in these textured white vases.  

When your table is as pretty as this one, sometimes it is nice to use a runner rather than a full tablecloth.  This grey woven runner was just the right amount of texture and color to add a little life to this table.  

If you are decorating your table for fun or for a special occasion, think of fun details you can add like these sweet little birds nests.  A little surprise on every plate!

The next table has a much more modern feel.  The simple white dishes, succulents and black and white linens are begging for a fabulous lunch in the garden or supper served fresh off of the grill.  If you want to mix things up with your linens, try using double runners across the table rather than one runner down the middle. If you have a very long dining table, you might need 3 to achieve this look.  Mixing in the wood, terracotta and blown glass makes it feel very fresh with a nod to the west.  I imagine myself sitting on a fabulous patio in Arizona, surrounded by cactus and a gorgeous orange sun set.  Ok, I am getting carried away.  Can you tell I am really in love with this table?  

I cut some of my biggest succulents for this table.  They happened to be blooming which was perfect to add a little length and drama to my arrangement.  Don't worry, they weren't wasted!  They were given to a friend to be potted where I am sure they will be very happy and make lots of succulent babies.  

Just one more shot of this because I think it is perfection!

The last table is a little more refined and traditional, set with woven place-mats, simple white dishes and plain stainless silverware.  A ginger jar shaped vase full of hydrangeas and gardenias adds a classic, southern feel. 

A place-mat is a great option when you are setting places at your counter or if you have a beautiful table you want to show off.

I hope you will have a little fun this summer dressing up your table, even if it is only for your family!  As always, we love to see how you are decorating at home,  so tag us on Facebook or Instagram!

To shop these beautiful tablescapes, visit our store HERE.

We had such a pretty spring this year here in South Georgia and Matt and I found ourselves out on the patio almost every evening.  The patio is always more fun with a cocktail so I decided to share a couple of my favorites with you.  These two cocktails require simple ingredients that are easy to keep on hand and are quick to mix up for unexpected guests or impromptu porch parties.  I purchased everything I needed at my local package store and my local Piggly Wiggly, definitely no fancy ingredients here!

Another delicious champagne cocktail is the Champagne Julep.  It is a crisp and bubbly alternative to the classic mint julep and is every bit as good! For this drink you will need: simple syrup, champagne, sugar cubes, and fresh mint.  I grew this mint in my little garden which makes it taste extra special to me!

Pictured here in a vintage champagne glass, this drink is traditionally served in a silver julep cup. See the video below for measurements and instructions.

If you love champagne, I hope you will take the time to try one of these delightful concoctions and let me know what you think.  From my porch to yours, cheers to the start of a happy and healthy summer!

If you get excited about fun and unusual cocktails, these two bar books are full of good ideas, and they are available on our website!  The French 75 recipe is from "Southern Cocktails" and I found the Champagne Julep, along with many other tempting libations in "A Spot at the Bar".  

To get all of the details on the tools and ingredients you'll need to make these two cocktails, along with measurements, check out my video below!