Blue and White Summer Table Setting

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Sometimes the best table settings are created by just using what you have around the house.    Simplicity often times really is the best and easy way to entertain.  This past weekend my son had a birthday, and he invited a couple friends over for dinner.  Now that my son is all grown up, I decided it would be nice to set a beautiful table for his dinner.  What are some of the elements I like to use to create a successful table setting for my guests?

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Well like decorating a room you have to start with the layers.  We have an outdoor table that I covered in a lacy blue and white tablecloth.  I like to use this tablecloth a lot because it matches the cushions on my outdoor furniture and pillows. At the beginning of summer, I also went to Joanne's Fabrics and purchased some of the clear plastic vinyl to put over the top of the cloth to help keep it clean for summer use.

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After the tablecloth was covered, I added a few lanterns that I use in my yard for decoration.  They have battery operated candles and add a little extra light for evening gatherings.  The shape of my table is rectangular so I placed two evenly spaced in the center of the table.  I grabbed my handy go to green glass vase and looked around my yard to see what was flowering.  As luck would have it, I had a couple giant white Annabelle Hydrangeas and into my vase, they went.  I put the Hydrangeas in between my lanterns. 

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Next, I added some herringbone rattan chargers that I picked up on clearance at Pier 1 about a month ago for a design project.  I liked the color and texture of these chargers, and they just reminded me of summer.  On top of the chargers, I added my white dinner plates.  I pulled out the silverware and wine cups from the cupboard.  I also added some navy cotton napkins to finish the place setting.  The final touch was to add a couple extra votive candles and light them up.  As the sun set, we ate our dinner by candlelight.  Spending time with family and friends is always the best kind of summer fun!

Take care,

Christina