We’re vaccinated, and the weather is finally warming up, which means it’s prime time for summer entertaining. Hallelujah. If you’re anything like me, you’re packing your calendar and are looking forward to catching up with friends you haven’t seen properly in ages. And while I think fresh flowers are the best centerpiece (ok, I am a little biased), I’m sharing some of my favorite easy and quick DIY tricks for a polished summer table.
Tablecloths have become a thing of the past for at home entertaining, in favor of pretty placemats and chargers. The key to any beautiful table is creating warmth and layers. We love a splash of color from a beautiful napkin or the texture of a rattan charger. If you’re in Old Town, pop into Boxwood or Red Barn Mercantile for all the pretty things.
It’s all about the little details. We love a fresh sprig of greenery or a dried orange slice to add an extra pop of fancy.
Your friends will think you’re a genius – trust us. If you’re at a loss for what to put in the center of your table, reach for seasonal produce. It’s super chic, cost-effective, and pairs beautifully with simple candles.
On the topic of candles – If you haven’t already, get yourself a collection of cool candles. Candles are easy, fast ambiance for any dinner party. We love a layered look for a table, so have fun with different shapes and sizes and different finishes of candle holders. Mixed metallic is all the rage, so don’t feel limited to just silver or gold. Special shout out to our friends at Patina Polished Living, who always have some of the most beautiful candle options.
Centerpieces aren’t just about flowers. We love a simple table set with driftwood branches and shells in the summer. Moss and candles make for a sophisticated, earthy look. Dried options are great to keep on hand and can be reused over and over.
Entertaining – and specifically table scaping – doesn’t have to be stuffy or stressful. Have fun and cheers to a summer full of pretty parties!
Helen Olivia is a boutique floral design studio located in the Del Ray neighborhood. Known for a lush and timeless style, the shop is a favorite among locals. Outside of beautiful flowers, Helen Olivia is a destination for house plants, decorative pottery, and an endless selection of stylish front door wreaths. The shop is also well known for its weekly floral design workshops — come visit us and try your hand at flower arranging! Helen Olivia is owned by Chuck and Rachel Gang who are veterans of the bustling Washington, D.C., events industry. Both are D.C. natives, and reside in the Ft Hunt neighborhood of Alexandria with their son Jack.
1519 Leslie Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
703.548.2848