It’s summer, and that can only mean one thing: it’s time to have some fun! Before the kids go back to school, spend some time with your family and friends by throwing a good, old-fashioned dinner party. Need some ideas? The tips below will help you throw one summer dinner soirée your guests won’t want to end.
Tableware should act as a blank canvas
There are tons of dishes out there to choose from, but nothing goes better with everything than classic white. Not only are they easy to mix and match with (you can change the color of your cups, glasses and silverware for every season!), but they also make your food really pop. These Geisha dishes from Armani/Casa should do the trick.
Get LIT
When you’re hosting a dinner party, lighting is key. Get creative with it! If you’re hosting it outside, bring your indoor lamps, like this fun Harlequin Floor Lamp from Jonathan Adler, outside and make your backyard look like your living room. Get a portable firepit or tiki torches and light them. String white bistro lights from tree to tree. Whether you’re inside or outside, fill different-sized drinking glasses with votives and run them down the middle of your table. Lights give a setting atmosphere, no matter what the occasion.
When it comes to food, go big or go home
Dinner parties at home are all about making sure everyone stays comfortable; and a good way to stay comfortable is to keep it laidback. When it’s time to eat, put the food out family-style! The bigger the vessel, the better—pile it high on platters, in big dishes, or even on large boards, like this Dune tray from Kartell. The benefit is threefold: the spread looks amazing, it makes things easier for the host, and it forces guests to interact with each other and socialize.
Keep the setting simple
In terms of table decorations, make it look nice, but air on the side of simple. Like we already mentioned, intersperse white tableware with trays of food, candles and lighting. Then, to add more color, give everyone vibrant napkins and colored glasses, put out flowers, or even make centerpieces out of summer fruits. If most of your decor is white or off-white, make it more exciting with a statement tablecloth. Throw your flowers in this Les Trésor de la Mer vase from Versace Home, and you’ll definitely liven up any plain tablescape.
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And of course… don’t forget the drinks
Put the drink table in a noticeable spot and make your guests a beverage as soon as they walk in. After that, though, they’re on their own! Set up a DIY cocktail bar with shakers, stirrers, fun liqueurs and bitters, and a few drink recipe cards to give them some intriguing ideas. For ambiance, set up your favorite drinking glasses there too. These multicolored crystal glasses from Luminaire make a fun addition to any stylish bar!
