Essential Guide to Spring + Summer Entertaining

Summer is the perfect season for gathering friends and family, enjoying the great outdoors, and indulging in fresh, delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue, an elegant garden party, or a relaxed potluck, the key to a successful summer event lies in thoughtful preparation and attention to detail. From setting a beautiful table with stylish homewares to creating mouth-watering dishes, every element contributes to an unforgettable experience.

From setting a coastal inspired table to the perfect chicken marinade - we've put together the perfect guide to help you host a flawless summer event. Learn to whip up fresh and delicious salads with our four fool proof dressing that will impress your guests. Plus, get practical tips to keep your gatherings stress-free and enjoyable. Let’s make this summer’s gatherings the best yet!

Setting the scene 

Summer is a great time to bring dining outdoors, and a beautifully styled table can elevate your entire entertaining experience. Imagine dining al fresco under the warm sun or twinkling stars, surrounded by vibrant colours and fresh, seasonal produce. Here’s how to make your table settings shine and create a memorable dining atmosphere:

Bright Colours and Fun Patterns: Choose table linens, placemats, and napkins in vibrant colours and playful patterns. Think stripes, polka dots, or floral prints that evoke the cheerful energy of summer. The maximalism trend is still going strong and incorporating it into tablescapes by mixing patterns and tones is here for summer.

Coastal Inspiration: For a relaxed and breezy vibe, opt for coastal-inspired elements. Incorporate hues of blue and white, and add touches of natural materials like woven placemats or rattan chargers.

Adairs' new-season collection (pictured) features playful prints of shells and coastal stripes, along with soft, fluid silhouettes in furniture. Look for textured cushions and throws in natural fibres like cotton and linen.

Food as art: Incorporating food into your table decor is a unique and beautiful way to enhance your summer entertaining. By using vibrant citrus fruits as place settings and fresh greens instead of traditional florals, you can create an artistic and appetizing tablescape that delights the senses. Not only are there endless possibilities, but it’s a sustainable way to style this season.

Mix and Match Serving Ware: Don’t be afraid to mix and match your plates, glasses, and cutlery. Combining different styles and colours can create a charming, eclectic look that’s perfect for summer.

Bed Bath N' Table's new collection is a masterclass in celebrating our unique native flora and fauna. This trend is all about bringing the beauty of the Australian bush into your home, creating a connection to the land we call home.

Fresh and Delicious Food Ideas 

Impress your guests with vibrant flavours and refreshing twists on classic summer dishes. 

• For a standout salad, try our Ginger & Garlic Kale Salad, featuring robust kale leaves tossed with a zesty dressing of grated ginger, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of honey. This salad not only packs a nutritional punch but also delights the palate with its bold and refreshing flavours.

• Pair your salad with a BBQ Chicken Marinade that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Marinate chicken thighs or breasts in a blend of barbecue sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and a touch of smoked paprika. Let the flavours meld together before grilling to juicy perfection. The marinade adds a smoky-sweet depth to the chicken, making it a delicious centerpiece for any summer gathering.