AGA'S TOP 5 MUST HAVES FOR SUMMER TABLESCAPES

At this time, we may not be able to host large gatherings with friends and families, but this doesn’t mean you can’t set your summer table. Growing up my mum always set the table, whether it we were having one of her amazing dinners or Chinese take out. We always had fresh flowers from the garden, a crisp table cloth, and candles. This was something I looked forward to every night and now that I am out of the nest I try to maintain some of these same nightly traditions.

With this in mind, I thought I would share my five must haves for setting a summer table…

#1 SET THE TONE WITH A TABLECLOTH

Think of your table cloth as the first layer. This is where you establish your color palette and it is a great opportunity to add pattern.

#2 PERFECT PLATES

I typically opt for crisp white plates because they go with everything.

#3 CUTLERY

Invest in a good set of cutlery.

#4 FLORALS IN THE MIDDLE

Center your table with one large vase or a variety of smaller vases filled with fresh seasonal flowers.

#5 GLASS HURRICANES

A pair of glass hurricanes are perfect for anytime of year, but especially in the summertime. Include a pillar candle and add a bit of sand for a coastal touch.

Image 1) Pinterest, 2) @indiaamory instagram, 3) wedgewood.com, 4) nantucketlooms.com, 5) Pinterest, 6) simonpearce.com

SET YOUR SUMMER TABLE

With all of the challenges that we have faced over the past few months, we can all agree that time with family and friends is more valuable than ever. As we step into summer I find myself missing family gatherings. I crave time spent enjoying good wine and food with loved ones, and the urge to entertain is stronger than ever with the current warmer weather and long sun filled days.

My hope is that our carefree gatherings and fun will return sooner rather than later. In the meantime, I thought I would share inspiration for your next summer table.

Over the past three years I have participated in Boston’s Heading Home to Dinner. The event brings members of the Boston design community together to raise money and awareness for Heading Home Inc. This wonderful foundation is devoted to helping low income families and individuals with housing, food, and other resources to get back on their feet.

Now more than ever, we need to help those in need. Please join the Boston community and #shareyourtable in support of Heading Home. Visit www.headinghomeinc.org to donate. You can also join us for this year’s #Pause4Peace on September 29th, for an opportunity to tune in for a live video of the past three years and donate.

SUMMER FEELING

Summer is my favorite time of year. I love the traditions, activities, and events that these months welcome. Cookouts, time spent at the beach, and ample amounts of fresh air help give summer a carefree feel.

Nothing shouts summer, like blue hydrangeas. So to get everyone in the summer spirit, here is some blue hydrangea inspiration.

Enjoy!

Images via Pinterest

MEMORIAL DAY GETAWAY

This is a strange year for many. Birthdays have been postponed, graduations cancelled, and vacations left in limbo. Memorial Day weekend typically marks the beginning of Summer and a time to escape to your beach house or favorite warm weather spot. I find myself struggling with the fact that my annual getaways are on hold as my Groundhog Day-esque routine continues.

This weekend or the weekend before would typically mark my first trip to the island of Nantucket. So as I pack my beach bag to head to the back lawn, I wanted to take a moment to share one of my favorite Nantucket beach houses, designed by one of my longtime design muses.

Victoria Hagan’s home is filled with large windows and French doors, that open to stunning views of Nantucket Harbor. The home has a wonderful way of marrying inside and out for a casual yet sophisticated feel. Hagan pairs tailored pieces, with relaxed slipcovered furniture and coastal textures. Looking at these photos you can almost feel the sea breeze sweeping through the screen.

Whether you are heading to a local Summer spot or enjoying a stay-cation in your backyard, I wish you a Happy Memorial Day weekend!

xx

Alex

All images via architecturaldigest.com