Summer Tablescape: Create the Ultimate Patriotic Look with Thrifted Treasures
Summer is the perfect time of year to gather around the table, share good food, and enjoy the company of friends and family. There’s something so special about setting a beautiful tablescape that embodies the energy of the season—full of bold colors, fresh fruits, and nostalgic touches. A well-styled table not only elevates your dining experience but also transforms your outdoor space into the perfect backdrop for a memorable summer celebration. Today, I’m sharing a beautiful summer tablescape idea that combines my love for thrifting and styling. This tablescape, featuring vintage glass sundae cups and a vintage Coca Cola crate centerpiece, is a great way to honor the season’s patriotic spirit while adding a touch of nostalgia.
Every Thursday, I share a Thrifted and Styled series where I showcase a thrifted item, update it if needed, and style it in my home. This summer tablescape is a part of that series and combines my passion for thrifting with a fresh, modern twist to create the perfect summer tablescape. If you love gathering and celebrating this time of year, you’ll love the tips and ideas I have in store for you!
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Place Settings and Patriotic Touches
When creating a summer tablescape, I always focus on incorporating elements that evoke the energy of summer—think fresh fruit, vintage finds, and bold colors. For this tablescape, I started with some simple yet elegant place settings. I used rattan chargers, which add a natural texture to the table, and paired them with white ribbon to tie in the red, white, and blue theme. White dishes, as the base for each place setting, provide the perfect neutral foundation that lets the pop of color from the accessories stand out.
Nostalgic Treats: Coca Cola Floats
The true showstopper of this tablescape is the Coca Cola float bar that I set up as part of the table decor. I served Coca Cola in glass bottles, poured over vanilla ice cream, all placed in my thrifted vintage sundae cups. These sweet treats add a fun and nostalgic twist to the tablescape, evoking memories of hot summer days and family gatherings. My grandfather, a Marine and World War II Veteran, used to serve us these same Coke floats when we were younger, and I can’t help but think of him as I share this tradition. He was incredibly proud of his country, and I know he would love this tablescape that blends his love for ice cream and America.
The Centerpiece: Coca Cola Crate and Flags
To create a well-rounded table display, I used a vibrant red, white, and blue table runner down the center of the table. This simple yet impactful addition sets the stage for the rest of the design, adding just the right touch of color to keep the patriotic theme going. The centerpiece of the table was a vintage Coca Cola crate, which not only serves as a nostalgic focal point but also functions as a fun way to serve the Coca Cola drinks. I added cotton American flags and used empty Coca Cola bottles as vases to hold simple white flowers, creating a clean and fresh look for the table.
Candles for Ambiance
For additional ambiance, I placed candles in hurricanes along the center of the table, providing a soft, inviting glow. The gentle flicker of candlelight enhances the laid-back, summer vibe and creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for outdoor dining.
Outdoor Space and Decor
To keep the patriotic theme flowing throughout the outdoor space, I added a grapevine wreath with an American flag draped over it, as well as an American flag banner on my hutch. A Marshall Pottery drink dispenser with its classic cream color and blue stripes adds a touch of vintage charm to the display. The outdoor space becomes an extension of the table, creating a seamless flow of decor from the table to the surrounding area, perfect for a summer celebration.
What are some great ideas for creating a patriotic summer tablescape?
A patriotic summer tablescape can be easily created by focusing on bold red, white, and blue colors. Incorporate vintage items like glass bottles and crates to add a sense of nostalgia. Adding simple touches like cotton flags, candles, and fresh flowers can make a big impact. It’s a perfect opportunity to mix sentimental elements with modern decor for a meaningful and visually stunning setup.
How can I create a simple tablescape without overcomplicating things?
Sometimes, less is more. Keep things simple by focusing on a few key elements, like a beautiful table runner and elegant place settings. You can also add a pop of color using fresh fruits, flowers, or unique glass bottles to elevate your table decor. Using white dishes as your base allows the accessories to shine without overwhelming the space.
How can I style a summer tablescape in my outdoor space?
The great thing about summer is that it’s the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. Set up your table under a shaded area or in a beautiful spot in your garden. A simple table runner in bold colors paired with natural materials like rattan chargers will keep the look cohesive and fresh. Don’t forget to add plenty of candles for ambiance and glass bottles for a nostalgic, vintage touch.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Summer Tablescape
- Start with a neutral foundation: White dishes or neutral placemats allow the bold colors and accessories to stand out, creating a beautiful tablescape that’s not overly busy.
- Use vintage finds: Thrift stores are gold mines for unique table decor. Look for vintage crates, glassware, and accessories that will add a nostalgic and personal touch to your tablescape.
- Add a pop of color: Whether it’s through a red, white, and blue table runner, fresh flowers, or colorful fruits, be sure to incorporate bold hues into your design.
- Set a nostalgic tone with a centerpiece: A vintage Coca Cola crate, with its Americana charm, can serve as both a decor piece and a functional part of your tablescape, offering a memorable and playful focal point.
- Keep things simple: An easy summer tablescape doesn’t have to be overly intricate. Simple elements like candles, fresh flowers, and subtle accessories will add texture and interest without overwhelming the table.
- Incorporate a fun treat: For this summer celebration, I used Coca Cola floats as a unique way to bring joy to the table. Ice cream and sodas are not only nostalgic but also a great way to add fun to any outdoor dining experience.
- Keep your outdoor space in mind: When styling an outdoor tablescape, think about the weather and the natural elements around you. Set up your table where it’s comfortable and consider adding small details like a hanging flag or a wreath for extra charm.
- Be creative with your glass bottles: Instead of using traditional vases, repurpose glass bottles, like empty Coca Cola bottles, to hold fresh flowers or use them to serve drinks. They’re a simple yet striking addition to your table display.
- Lighting is key: Candles are a must for creating an inviting atmosphere. Use hurricane candles or smaller tea lights to add a soft, romantic glow to the table.
- Celebrate family traditions: Whether it’s the nostalgic taste of an ice cream float or a family heirloom passed down through the generations, including sentimental items in your tablescape will make it feel even more special.
This summer tablescape, with its blend of thrifted vintage pieces and fresh, simple touches, is a beautiful example of how to make your outdoor dining experience come alive with personality and style. It’s a perfect opportunity to mix the old and the new while celebrating the season of summer fun with those you love.
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