The elliestyled Guide to Summer Entertaining
When it comes to summer entertaining, we’re all about gatherings that feel thoughtful, joyful, and a little bit unexpected. Whether you’re hosting in your backyard, by the lake, or at a beautifully styled venue, it’s the little details—the linens, the glassware, the garden clippings on the table—that make a celebration feel special.
At elliestyled, we love helping our clients create moments that feel true to them, rooted in the season, and elevated in all the right ways. Here are a few of our favorite tips for making your summer celebration stand out.
1. Let Your Garden Inspire the Table
This season, let nature take the lead. Instead of traditional florals, create centerpieces using fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruits from your own garden or farmers market. Set the table right in the middle of your garden for a truly immersive experience. We love using foraged greenery, squash, grapes—even blooming vines—to build a lush, organic tablescape that feels rooted in the moment.
2. Create a Signature Drink Moment
A styled drink station is a simple way to add personality and flavor. Think spritz bars, sangrias with summer fruits, or playful cocktails like watermelon-basil margaritas. Add fresh garnishes, charming signage, and curated glassware for a layered, elevated look. It's a detail guests won’t forget—and a great way to reflect the theme or color palette of your event.
3. Say Yes to Long Tables and Shared Plates
Summer is made for togetherness. There’s something undeniably special about guests gathered around one long table—elbows bumping, dishes being passed, conversations flowing late into the evening. Family-style dining brings a sense of ease and intimacy that instantly makes everyone feel at home. Pair that warmth with a beautifully styled tablescape—layered linens, glowing candles, and thoughtful details—and you’ve got the kind of atmosphere that makes people want to linger.
4. Use Rentals to Elevate Your Summer Events
Summer entertaining gets a major boost with rentals from elliestyled. With no minimums required, it’s easy to incorporate elevated details that make your setup stand out. Hosting a casual dinner for six and tired of using the same china and glasses? You can rent small quantities to refresh your table without the commitment. Or want to impress your guests with a bar setup in your backyard? We have tons of bar rentals available—chic ice buckets, garnish bowls, trays, candles, and styled back bar shelves to pull the whole look together. Rentals make it simple to switch things up and create a space that feels intentional, elevated, and uniquely yours.
