The lazy months of summer will soon be on us with long days and hot nights, and that means entertaining friends in the heat. Here are a few good ways to welcome friends and family when they come to visit other than greeting them with a nice cold ice tea.Remember the most important item to bring to the table is true Southern hospitality that Atlantans have in spades.
One of the biggest ways to change your summer table is to change the table itself. Atlanta-based Ace Design Expert Katie Reynolds suggests dining al fresco.
"Atlanta homes often feature screened in porches perfect for outdoor dining," said Reynolds. "The perfect summer table starts here and I love a casual farmhouse style outdoor table." Atlanta's Mondani Furniture or Summer Classics have summertime patio sets to get the entertainment started.
Setting the table with flowers is another excellent way to make your guests feel welcome. "Peonies are in season and are one of the most decadent, lovely blooms around," said Reynolds. "In Atlanta, these flowers can be found at most specialty grocers. Add a few blooms to clear, colorful vintage vases for a lovely centerpiece running down the table."
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Bring on the candles too and dine by candlelight in the evening. Making a candle is as easy as combining a case of mason jars and tea lights. Set the candles on end tables, dining tables, mantles or other high surface areas in order to surround the party with the soft glow of candlelight.
Another way to light the night if you want a bit more of a party ambiance outdoors is string lights hanging from the trees.
"Turn off the overhead lights and opt for setting the mood with twinkling string lights or Edison bulbs for a modern edge," Reynolds said.
Ace Hardware and World Market both carry a variety of string lights for outdoors.
Festive floral tableware is yet another way to add to the summer fun. Reynolds says Swoozie's Buckhead location has festive and fun tableware like the floral Kate Spade patio dining line.
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Personalize your summer dinner by creating place settings and napkin rings for each guest. For example, use shells from a recent beach trip to hold a place card or create DIY stamped monograms on plain white cloth napkins for a unique twist.
"Don't forget about the perfect tunes," Reynolds concluded. "Music can make or break the mood so preload a laid back, beachy vibe soundtrack of your favorite tunes on your smartphone. Play it in the background for the finishing touch to setting the perfect summer table and mood."
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