At Table of Friends, the best moments happen around the table. Summer is the perfect season to get creative with your hosting. From breezy coastal chic to a relaxed backyard BBQ, these ideas will help you set the scene, curate the perfect menu, and wow your guests.

1. Garden Party

Set up an outdoor space and surround your guests with fresh floral arrangements for a charming garden party. Think pastel spring colours and light bites on a sunny afternoon.

Ideas:

• Serve tea sandwiches, fresh salads, and fruit platters

• For drinks, offer a cucumber-infused cocktail or lavender lemonade

• Finish with a light, airy dessert like lemon tart or sugar cookies

• Outdoor set with string lights and bud vases 

Hosting tip: Thrift mismatched bud vases and mason jars for an effortless feel

2. Coastal Chic

Everybody loves a coastal grandma asesthic as we head into summer. Embrace a breezy, elegant theme inspired by the Hamptons with a blue colour palette and fresh seafood.

Ideas:

• Oysters, lobster rolls, and shrimp cocktail

• White and blue table decor with rattan and linen accents

• Signature cocktails like white sangria

• Seashell centrepieces or beachy taper candles

Hosting tip: Curate a coastal playlist, think Lana Del Rey, Fleetwood Mac, and some soft house beats.

3. Italian Summer

Channel the warmth and vibrancy of the Amalfi Coast with bold flavours and rustic charm. Tomatoes double as décor (and candles!), lemons are a must, and don’t be afraid to go all out with red-checkered linens or Tuscan touches.

Ideas:

• DIY pizza-making station with fresh toppings

• Burrata with peaches, prosciutto, and fresh basil

• A classic Aperol spritz 

Hosting tip: Turn tomatoes into candle holders for a fun DIY moment before dinner. It’s an easy, aesthetic activity that doubles as decor. 

4. Brunch & Bubbly 

For an easy, elevated get-together, a boozy brunch hits every time. Light bites, sparkling drinks, and slow morning vibes make it the perfect way to catch up and ease into the day with your people.

Ideas:

• Mimosa bar with fresh fruit juices and edible flowers

• Homemade bagels with cream cheese and toppings

• Macarons, croissants, and delicate pastries

• A breakfast-themed playlist to keep the vibe airy

Hosting tip: Use tiered serving trays and vintage glassware for a perfect tablescape.

5. Mediterranean Escape

Take your guests on a culinary trip to the Mediterranean with flavours from Greece and southern Italy. Think breezy blues, sun-dried herbs, and crisp whites.

Ideas:

• Grilled chicken skewers, hummus, tzatziki, and fresh pita

• Mediterranean salad with olives, feta, and cucumber

• A crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade

• Blue-and-white table settings, terracotta accents

Hosting tip: Use olive branches or citrus fruits as simple, elegant table runners. 

6. Backyard BBQ

Classic laid-back summer vibes. Fire up the grill, pass around the sliders, and bring out the lawn games for a night full of casual fun and good eats.

• Grilled corn on the cob and sliders

• Set up a spiked lemonade bar. Make the lemonade base and provide mix-ins like berries, basil, cucumber, and sparkling water, and let guests mix their own 

• Lawn games like cornhole, horseshoes, or giant Jenga

Hosting tip: Use mini chalkboard signs to label food and drinks. It’s a simple detail that adds style and keeps things organized.

7. Midsummer Night’s Dream

A whimsical, fairy-tale-inspired dinner under the stars. Think twinkling lights, s'mores, and dreamy vibes.

Ideas:

• Outdoor setup with lanterns and fairy lights

• Charcuterie board with brie, jam, and crackers.

• Bonfire with s’mores

• A curated playlist with country tunes

Hosting tip: Hand out cozy blankets for an extra special touch and to keep guests warm.

8. Cottagecore Picnic

Rustic charm meets cozy countryside vibes in this vintage-inspired gathering. Perfect for a sunny day in the park or your backyard.

Ideas:

• Homemade sourdough with fresh butter and jam

• Fresh fruit, cheeses, and hand pies

• Thrifted or vintage dishes, linen blankets, and woven baskets

• Soft indie playlist and nature all around

Hosting tip: Pack everything in a picnic basket and include handwritten menus for each guest.

9. Tacos & Tequila Night

Spice things up with a fiesta full of bold flavours, vibrant décor, and endless fun. This theme brings major energy and is perfect for birthdays, casual hangouts, or summer nights.

Ideas:

• DIY taco bar with all the fixings

• Spicy margaritas, palomas, and a tequila tasting station

• Bright coloured tablecloths and cactus centrepieces

• Card games or a spicy truth-or-dare

Hosting tip:  Add a Polaroid or film cam to the table so everyone leaves with a little memory.

10. Farmers’ Market Feast

Celebrate the best of the season with a fresh, farm-to-table style menu. Highlight local produce and let the ingredients shine with simple, rustic presentation.

Ideas:

• Roasted seasonal veggies, artisan bread, fruit salad

• Local cheeses, honey, and fresh herbs

• Simple wine pairings or a fruit-forward mocktail

• Wooden boards, ceramic dishes, and wildflowers

Hosting tip: Display food in a grazing table style. It's interactive, low effort, and always impressive

Happy Hosting!