SOPHIE BELL
Stylist and Digital Creator

 “Entertaining styling for me is all about mixing fruits and veggies into table scapes and styling.”

“I obviously love using things like lemons, oranges, grapefruits, limes and bananas on the vine but if you want to do more muted vibes for all one tone - but lots of it - use zucchini flowers on the table with green olive branches and foliage galore. The more layers and texture the better.

You also don’t have to spend a bomb styling, forage for leaves and simple greenery if you don’t want to spend loads on flowers. I also love buying mix matched patterned fabric and making napkins and tablecloths. Spotlight has so many fun fabrics.

Another fun idea is making a margarita station with lots of ingredients and have all the fresh product displayed in boxes and different height ceramics. Not only does it look so beautiful, everyone loves it on the day. Don’t forget to dehydrate your fruit for the margs, oranges, lemons, limes, pineapples all look stunning.”

ANDREA HORVATT
Founder Dos Ombre

“I love summer time and entertaining for friends and family, cheese platters and tables, especially.”

“Flowers, fruits and foliage are always a never-fail approach for festive styling. Candles always set the mood for night time setting. Selenite tea light holders give a beautiful soft glow.

Be creative with your food arrangements, large ceramic plant saucers are a great and different approach for serving food at big parties and can go in the oven. Don’t be afraid to use a linen sheet for a luxe dramatic look and textured draped feel.

Remember, don’t go overboard – you want to see your guests and have room for the main event [the food!]."

MARISSA BOWDEN
Creative Director and Founder, Sun House Studio. 

“For me the key element to summer entertaining is music - so create some fun playlists and no matter what you’re cooking - it’s set to be a fun vibe.”

“Think doors open and shoes off. Keep your table scape paired back and fuss-free with natural fabrics, nothing too styled - there’s no need for uptight and overstyled table settings.

Perhaps a linen tablecloth, or plates straight onto a rustic timber tabletop, a bunch of flowers or greens straight from the garden.

Delicious icy cold drinks to serve, always at hand. Happy days!”

JASMINE DOWTHWAITE
Creative Director, Three Balls Red

“For me, it’s about fresh flowers, delicious summer stone fruit, seafood and a great playlist.”

“At the moment, I am loving coloured glassware, and colourful fruit for table styling, and bright playful cushions for indoor and outdoor spaces.

Fill your vases with fresh florals like coloured poppies or paper daisies – this will brighten up any space."

JEN BAZ LANE
Stylist 

“Summer is the season for play so playfulness should see its way through to your home, especially when entertaining.”

“Whether its cups of tea or a wine and cheese board, mix neutral tone of wood or handmade mugs with eye-catching napkins or glassware.

Add pops of colour to a dining table scattering small bold tones glass vessels filled with single delicate flowers. Don’t be shy to serve up meals on lively coloured plates.

Lounge by the coffee table stacked with a few vivid books and scented candles to truly relax with guests.

Essentially, don’t be coy with colour this summer but keep it casual combining brights with muted or neutral tones.”