While the kids may be heading back to school and fall fashion is arriving in full swing, summer is still very much here - and we're savoring every last bit of it.
The second half of August is one of the best times to host a summer garden party, celebrating the season’s bounty with close friends and family.
Setting the Scene
Those cooler evenings settling in for many of us are perfect for dining al fresco. A thoughtfully set table, layered with the beauty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers, instantly elevates the moment. Nature provides the best palette—grounded, seasonal, and casually elegant.
We love using farmers’ market finds as inspiration. Think: bunches of tomatoes on the vine with fragrant basil, or garden roses paired with peaches and plums in low bowls. Tuck in sprigs of rosemary or mint for added texture and fragrance.
-
For a joyful vibe: Mix bright, bold colors.
-
For a soothing mood: Choose a soft, tone-on-tone palette.
For this particular table, we combined peaches, yellow and pink heirloom tomatoes, potted basil, eucalyptus, and blush-toned roses to create a light, summery look.
The Tabletop
To ground the setting, we kept the linens neutral—a soft ivory tablecloth—and added a playful accent with embroidered lemon and orange blossom napkins.
Shop the Look:
A Late Summer Menu
This menu practically wrote itself, thanks to all the gorgeous produce available right now. Each dish keeps things simple, with a mix of make-ahead elements and last-minute touches.
Starters
-
Fresh figs with goat cheese, rosemary, and olive oil drizzle
-
Paired with a rosé strawberry spritz
Main Course
-
Heirloom tomatoes served with garlic rubbed grilled bread
-
Pesto pasta with haricots verts
-
Rosemary pork tenderloin with grilled peaches
Dessert
-
A rustic plum tart with vanilla ice cream
Shop the Look:
- Marble and Wood Serving Board
- Ivory Stoneware Platter
- Lady Onyx Serving Set
- Marble and Wood Coaster Set
- Madras Wood Serving Spoons
Hosting Tip: When dishes rely on just a few ingredients, source the best you can find—farmers’ market tomatoes, peak-season peaches, and fragrant garden herbs. Their natural flavors will do the heavy lifting.
Finishing Touch
And for a thoughtful finishing touch, gather leftover blooms into small hand-tied bouquets for your guests to take home—a simple but memorable favor.
Closing Note
Summer is fleeting, but these small, beautiful moments leave a lasting impression. We hope this inspires you to pause, savor the season’s bounty, and elevate your gatherings—whether big or small.
Cheers,
The Moss and Linen Team
