With summer arriving, outdoor FUN is about to ramp up! Living in sunny Southern California certainly has its perks, and being able to dine alfresco on a regular basis is high on my list. I was set to host a couple of old and dear friends for lunch, and it felt like the perfect way to kick off the season. With just the four of us girls and a relaxed, easy-breezy vibe for lunch, I wanted to create a simple yet beautiful table for us all to enjoy.
To keep things budget-friendly, my first step is always to check what I call my “Entertainment Arsenal.” It’s a collection of supplies I’ve gathered over the years—bargain finds and versatile basics I reach for time and time again. Using what we already own is truly the easiest (and smartest!) way to keep costs down when hosting.
To learn more about How to Build Your Own Entertainment Arsenal, click HERE!
After digging through my stash and linen closet, I landed on a beachy theme, inspired by some darling Pottery Barn linens I was gifted years ago. It felt like the perfect way to kick off summer!
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Here’s how I set the stage:
Table Decor:
Linens:
- Table Runner – The natural color and navy shell print gave the table the perfect coastal vibe and helped anchor the whole look. Mine is from Pottery Barn and was a gift from years ago, but I found a similar, budget-friendly option on Amazon. Another great choice is Pottery Barn’s newest nautical-themed table runner—it has that same breezy, seaside feel.
- Napkins – I’m not a big fan of the overly matchy-matchy look, so these blue linen napkins were the perfect contrast while still keeping that breezy, coastal vibe. Mine were a gift from years ago, but I found a similar set on Amazon from a brand I’ve used (and loved) time and time again.
Tableware:
- White Dishes – I used my favorite “goes-with-anything” basic white dishes. Mine are Wedgewood Strawberry & Vine—no longer made, sadly (yes, I’m apparently that old—my everyday wedding china is now discontinued!). But I found a great, solid alternative on Amazon that’s well-priced and just as versatile.
- Blue Glassware – These were actually Target dollar bin finds that I thought were just too darling to pass up! The color was perfect for the coastal theme. I also found these similar, pretty blue glasses—they’re reasonably priced and would definitely fit the bill.
- Placemats/Chargers – I used my blue woven placemats for this setup, but there are so many fun ways to capture that boho beach vibe. These nautical blue woven placemats would work beautifully, or you could go with natural rattan chargers—like the ones I used for my Mother/Daughter luncheon—for a more earthy, textured look.
- Napkin Rings – To stay with the coastal feel, I used my silver napkin rings adorned with seahorses, starfish, and shells. To get a similar look, these silver coastal napkin rings are a great option—and if you want something a little more playful, jute-woven nautical knot rings are a fun alternative!
Learn How I Put Together a Springlike Whimsical Tablescape, click HERE!
Centerpieces:
- Clear Cylinder Vase – This 5×5 vase is incredibly versatile and worked perfectly for the main floral arrangement on the table. I added an aspidistra ribbon inside the vase, which gave the centerpiece a more polished, professional look with very little effort.
- Bubble Vase – One of my favorite go-to vases I used for a smaller arrangement I used inside for added decor
- Flowers – Trader Joe’s never lets me down, and this time was no exception. I went with more muted tones to complement the beachy theme: white and blue hydrangeas, lavender jumbo mums (giving off major sea anemone vibes), white mums, soft purple and white filler, and nickel eucalyptus. The combination felt fresh, coastal, and just a little wild—in the best way.
Check out my Tips on How to Transform Market Flowers into Beautiful Floral Designs HERE!
Additional Decor:
- Votive Candles – Having a stash of votives on hand made this little DIY project a breeze. I simply added a bit of sand and popped in white candles—an easy touch that brought just the right amount of beachy charm to the table.
- Sea Shells – I’m a big believer in saving and reusing—it’s both budget-friendly and environmentally conscious. These seashells are a perfect example! I had tucked them away from a beautiful floral arrangement that had long since passed its prime, and they ended up being a fabulous addition to the tablescape.
Menu:
Since it was just the four of us girls for lunch, I kept the menu simple—but I still wanted it to say, “summer is here!” And I think I pulled it off. 🙂
Beverages: Sparkling lemonade, iced tea, wine and water
Appetizer:
- Charcuterie board with homemade parmesan spiced crackers. Strawberries, grapes, cherries and sea shells were added for summer flair!
- Blackberry compote with fresh basil over cream cheese
Lunch:
- Strawberry Feta Salad with Poppyseed Dressing & Grilled Chicken
- Fresh Homemade Cheese Biscuits
Dessert: Fresh Strawberries with Blueberry Crumb Cake (compliments of our guests)
We had such a lovely day catching up with one another. Longtime friendships are truly special, and this little lunch felt like the perfect way to kick off the summer season—sunshine, old and dear friends, good food, and a beautiful table to gather around.
Whether you’re hosting close friends or simply setting a pretty table to celebrate the season, it doesn’t take much to make it feel special. With a few thoughtful touches, some well-loved basics, and a sprinkle of creativity, you can bring that breezy, coastal vibe to any gathering. Here’s to long lunches, meaningful connection, and savoring all the simple joys summer has to offer.
If you’re feeling inspired to create your own summer tablescape, I’d love to see it! Tag me or leave a comment below—sharing ideas is half the fun.
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We had the best time! Such a special day with you ladies. We are so very grateful for you and your family. So glad you are sharing your passion for hosting on your blog — you have a real gift. We love you, Chanel and Julie
Special moments can only happen with special people…it was truly a warm fuzzy of an afternoon~ XO
This is just beautiful. I love the small touch ideas like adding the sea shell on the charcuterie. I would not have thought to bring the idea forward like that. I am obsessed with printed napkins. I was a fabric/wallpaper designer in another life.
Beautiful, Shelly.
Btw, “hi”♥️
That means so much, especially coming from someone is such an artistic talent! Thank you for checking out my post! 🙂