August is here—which means we only have a few precious weeks left to savor all the joys of summer entertaining. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a garden party, a beachside clambake, cocktails on the porch, or a starlit wedding dinner, now’s the time to make the most of warm-weather gatherings.
To spark inspiration, Vogue asked some of our favorite hosts, tastemakers, and interior designers to dream up their ideal dinner party tables—and share their best hosting tips. (Pro tip: You can never go wrong with plenty of flowers, and never underestimate the power of UberEats.)
### Kendall Knox, Olive Ateliers
Her perfect summer table:
“A weathered wood or stone table—no tablecloth, just the marks of good times: red wine rings, candle wax from late nights, and years of sun. Fresh-cut hydrangeas or whatever’s blooming in the garden. Plates stacked at one end, not perfectly set. Bowls of peaches, good salt within reach, and linen napkins.”
Go-to styling trick:
“It should feel effortless, like you threw it together five minutes before guests arrived—that’s the charm, even if it took longer. I layer elements for an imperfect look: a few standout vintage pieces (sometimes with flowers, sometimes left empty), breadboards as bases for serving bowls (they add texture and catch spills). Most importantly, make sure guests can see each other—if the decor blocks conversation, it’s got to go.”
Favorite summer meal:
“An heirloom tomato salad, or stone fruit with basil and olive oil. A torn baguette or olive bread (dip it in the tomato juices). Aperol spritzes with citrus, maybe a chilled vinho verde. And always something sweet stashed in the fridge—chocolate, gelato, or leftovers from last time—in case the night runs late.”
Hosting advice:
“Guests follow your lead—if you’re relaxed (shoes off, glass in hand), they will be too. The best tables don’t feel overly ‘hosted.’ I set up a self-serve drink station so I’m not stuck playing bartender.”
Where she’s entertaining: California
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### Shea McGee, Founder of Studio McGee
Her perfect summer table:
“In summer, I love a table that’s easy but elegant. A linen tablecloth or runner sets the tone without being fussy. Then I layer in texture—woven placemats, ceramic plates, and glassware with subtle details, like ribbing. Fresh garden clippings or market flowers, kept loose and natural. The goal? Relaxed and inviting—nothing too perfect for summer.”
Go-to styling trick:
“Fresh florals always work. I love using unexpected garden finds, like rosemary stems—they’re fragrant and beautiful. Summer calls for a more organic look than formal arrangements.”
Favorite summer meal:
“My husband handles the grill (his salmon or chicken is amazing), while I toss together seasonal salads or sides. It’s simple, fresh, and just as enjoyable to serve as it is to eat. For dessert, something light—lemon olive oil cake or berries with whipped cream.”
Hosting advice:
“Prep as much as possible beforehand—set the table, get the food ready, queue up a playlist—so you can actually enjoy the party.”
Where she’s entertaining: UtahHere’s a more natural and fluent version of your text while keeping the original meaning intact:
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Light a candle, stock the bathroom with fresh towels and soap, and maybe add a small floral arrangement in the entryway. Those little details make a big difference in how guests feel when they arrive.
Where she entertains: Salt Lake City.
### Flynn McGarry, Gem Home
His perfect summer table: “Lots of wildflowers, big salads, and mismatched tableware. A summer table should feel slightly wild and overwhelming—just like the season.”
Go-to table trick: “Stick flowers into fruit to hold them, then use the fruit for baking the next day. (Just make sure the flowers aren’t poisonous!)”
Favorite summer meal: “Grilled fish with salsa verde, tomato and nectarine salad, flatbread, and grilled squash.”
Hosting tip: “Choose a menu you can handle while entertaining. If you’re eating outside, go for grilled dishes or salads so you can enjoy the evening with your guests.”
Where he entertains: “Either in my New York apartment or in our restaurant garden on Long Island.”
### Monique Faber, Chief Design Officer at Louis Poulsen
Her perfect summer table: “In summer, I love hosting garden dinners early to take advantage of Denmark’s beautiful natural light. I set the table right on the grass—it feels more relaxed and connected to nature.”
Go-to table trick: “I’m obsessed with lamps, so I always include portable ones, especially opal glass designs. Their soft light creates warmth and a cozy mood. Dim lighting makes everything feel magical. My Scandinavian-inspired table mixes wildflowers with matte ceramics, textured cutlery, delicate glassware, and subtle silver accents.”
Favorite summer meal: “Seasonal salads with local vegetables, grilled white fish with lemon and sea salt, a selection of farm cheeses, fresh summer fruits, and of course, a great cake for dessert.”
Hosting tip: “Keep it simple. Prep ahead so you can actually enjoy the party. Spend time with your guests—not cleaning—because the night flies by. A relaxed host with food and drinks ready is the best welcome. I set up a separate drinks table styled to match the main table—it’s a nice backdrop and saves trips to the kitchen.”
Don’t forget: “A great playlist sets the mood for an unforgettable garden dinner.”
Where she entertains: “In my garden, north of Copenhagen.”
### Lukas Lewandowski, Founder of Casa Lawa
His perfect summer table: “A long table under the trees, dressed in vintage linens, my handmade ceramics, and bowls of chilled fruit—watermelon, peaches, and cherries. I love when it looks a little undone, with wrinkled linen and mismatched glasses.”
Go-to table trick: “Play with layers and textures—a soft tablecloth, stacked plates, fresh fruit as decor, a great playlist, and a bowl of really good olives. That’s all you need to make guests stay longer than planned.”
Favorite summer meal: “Right now, it’s tomato and peach salad with lots of herbs, followed by lemony spaghetti with shrimp tartare. Dessert is fresh churned ice cream with poached plums, flaky salt, and a drizzle of olive oil.”
Hosting tip: “Don’t overthink it. People remember the vibe more than the napkins. Set the mood with music, make a pitcher of aperitivo, and leave room for spontaneity. A little chaos is part of the charm—don’t have everything perfectly ready.”
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This version keeps the original meaning while making the text more conversational and easier to read. Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Here’s the rewritten version in fluent, natural English:
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CeCe Barfield, Founder of CeCe Barfield Home
Photo: Lesley Unruh
Her perfect summer table: “Crisp white linens, silver cups, low votives, and flowers picked from the garden (or a local variety).”
Go-to table styling trick: “Vary the heights of flowers and candles on the table—think of a skyline! And make sure guests can still chat comfortably over the arrangements.”
Favorite summer meal to serve: “Poached salmon with dill sauce.”
Handy hosting advice: “Silver cups are great for outdoor entertaining—they’re shatterproof! I use them all summer—much more stylish than plastic and more practical than glass.”
Where she’s entertaining: “Bath County, Virginia.”
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Rebecca Gardner, Founder of Houses & Parties
Photo: Adam Kuehl
Her perfect summer table: “I love relaxed summer dinners with a laid-back vibe and plenty of rosé, served over ice.”
Go-to table styling trick: “I mix bold colors and wild prints—on the tent, tablecloth, napkins, chair cushions, and even little party favor bags (which can also be mischief bags).”
Favorite summer meal to serve: “My go-to: Southern fried chicken (Popeye’s is best, or Round Swamp if you must), tomato pie, cornbread muffins, and Via Carota’s amazing green salad—just Google the recipe. For dessert, a Carvel cake with chocolate sauce and fresh berries.”
Handy hosting advice: “Stay calm, cool, and collected. A great host kicks off their shoes, makes thoughtful introductions, and serves cocktails and compliments with equal enthusiasm. If you’re nervous, just fake it till you make it.”
Where she’s entertaining: “Savannah, Georgia.”
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Robin Standefer & Stephen Alesch, Founders of Roman & Williams
Featuring Kaneko Kohyo’s Rinka Flower Plate, Deborah Ehrlich glassware, Keiko Lee glasses, and Yoshihiro Nishiyama bottles filled with Queen Anne’s lace and wildflowers. Table set with RW Guild Enzyme Washed linens, Seamoor chairs, and antique flatware. Flowers by Emily Thompson.
Photo: Courtesy of Roman & Williams.
Their perfect summer table: “Our table is inspired by meadows and gardens—bare oak with no tablecloth feels fresh and simple. This look works day or night, city or country.”
Go-to table styling trick: “When in doubt, add more flowers and candles down the table. Nature never gets it wrong, and a wild mix of blooms and lights shows your guests you care.”
Favorite summer meal to serve: “Fresh tomato salad with fennel pollen, and Stephen’s famous fish soup—made with Montauk seafood, crab broth, red curry, and every herb you can imagine.”
Handy hosting advice: “From an etiquette expert I met in Morocco: Do the final touches yourself, in your best outfit, even after a hectic day. That quiet moment with your table before guests arrive will lift your spirits.”
Where they’re entertaining: “Montauk and New York City.”
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Annabelle Moehlmann, Founder of Land of Belle
Photo: Courtesy of Land of Belle
Her perfect summer table: “I wanted a lighthearted, festive lunch table in the Hamptons that also felt like a summer day by the sea in France. I used white cosmos and tangerine dahlias from local growers, along with seashells collected at Georgica Beach.”
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Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Here’s a natural and fluent rewrite of the text while preserving its original meaning:
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Celebrating Summer in Long Island
There’s nothing like the scent of fresh mint in the breeze—it’s the perfect way to embrace the height of summer.
Go-to table styling trick: Mix prints in harmonious colors and use tumblers for low, charming arrangements scattered across the table.
Favorite summer meal: A fresh salad with buffalo mozzarella, peaches, figs, basil, and avocado, drizzled with Mano Dori balsamic vinegar—my absolute favorite.
Hosting advice: The soundtrack sets the mood, and your guests will only be as relaxed as you are.
Where she entertains: Georgica Pond, East Hampton.
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Robert McKinley, Interior Designer & Founder of Studio McKinley
His perfect summer tablescape: Heath ceramics have a beautiful weight and texture—I love their understated quality. Vintage tumblers and woven glass covers add soulful texture to the table.
Go-to table styling trick: Foliage is the easiest way to bring a tablescape to life. I mix greens and flowers of different sizes for visual and physical texture. A small trail of foliage or a runner creates continuity. Beautiful linens and unique glasses are a must.
Favorite summer meal: Spaghetti chitarra with lemon zest, Calabrian chili, and Parmigiano Reggiano sauce—light, fresh, and spicy.
Hosting advice: Keep it comfortable—you’re not a restaurant! The best dinners are warm and welcoming. Dim the lights and make sure there’s plenty of food.
Where he entertains: The McKinley Bungalow in Montauk, New York.
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Meryl Hadida Shabani, Founder of L’Eclaireur
Her perfect summer tablescape: I love dining under the stars. In summer, I play with colorful tablecloths and placemats to make the table feel special. The perfect playlist sets the mood, and lighting is key—always dim and romantic!
Go-to table styling trick: Use what’s around you for a natural feel. If the table is in a garden, it should reflect that. I arrange branches and flowers from nearby trees and plants for an effortless yet elegant look.
Favorite summer meal: Start with family-style carpaccio, followed by lemon risotto or bottarga spaghetti. For the main course, I serve a whole grilled fish with roasted vegetables and crispy potatoes.
Hosting advice: Since I love cooking and hosting, I prepare dishes ahead of time so I can enjoy my guests. Appetizers are ready to serve, and the main dish just needs to go in the oven when they arrive. Timing is everything.
Where she entertains: At home in Sardinia.
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This version keeps the original meaning while making the text more fluid and natural. Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!