To me, nothing says summer more than fresh fruit! Since watermelon is still in season, it is the inspiration behind this end of summer get together and tablescape idea.
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The Menu
Because our get together was last minute, I pulled this light menu together quickly and got the food shopping done in double time. To keep things simple, I picked up some breads, cheeses, lettuce, fruit and of course…spirits!
This get together and tablescape idea would also work great for a brunch. If I were hosting a brunch, I’d probably add a quiche, bagels, toppings, muffins, coffee and a fun mimosa!
Setting the Table
I love to set a festive and fun table. Nothing is more welcoming to friends and family than a cozy and inviting table. The simplest of things can make a huge impact that will help guests feel extra special.
The key to setting a cozy table is layers…lots of them!
Since I love my wood table bare, I did not use a tablecloth. For the base, I started with a light and airy macrame table runner.
The next layer is the centerpiece. I just used the one that I have outside because it’s simple, and the faux succulent hues and gray trough work for the look I wanted to achieve.
When setting a cozy table, the key is layering placemats and plates so there is texture, dimension and warmth. I picked up these cedar branch placemats from Pier 1 that I use all the time. They make such a great base layer and I use them in many tablescapes!
On top, I added rattan chargers that I love to use all the time too (paid link). They add warmth and texture it to the table.
Next layer is the dinner plate which is from my casual, everyday dishes. Depending on my mood or what I’m going for, I will either use my everyday plates or my Lenox. I would love to have holiday or seasonal specific plates, but I really do not have a place to store them so I prefer to use what I have and add the small touches.
On top of the dinner plate, I like to layer a pretty cloth napkin. For this tablescape, I wanted something darker and subdued to contrast with my plants and the melon so I went with a charcoal-navyish linen. Then I added the salad plate.
The top of the salad plate is where I like to get creative, through either decor, a natural element, or food. Instead of using some sort of decor item, I just made a quick watermelon salad and topped off the plates to go with my theme. We’re going to eat it anyway!
To finish off the table, I added wine glasses with a metal straw and white sangria. Since I am doing a watermelon theme, I made this watermelon sangria.
Final touches include platters of watermelon, bowls of fresh fruit as well as breads on both breadboards and small platters.
What Do You Think?
When my husband saw the photos I shared last week on Instagram, he didn’t think it was our house! I love the bright colors that the watermelon adds to the greenery of my deck.
I would love to hear what you think about this tablescape. Let me know in the comments here.
Thanks so much for following along!