Hello sweet friends. Are you ready for the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer? It has definitely arrived in my Appalachian Foothills with heat, humidity, and very little rain. I can’t complain because spring was cool and damp.
“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!”
Psalm 34:8
I am excited to join nineteen creative table stylists for a Summer Tablescape Blog Hop hosted by my friend, Rita from Panoply. You will find all of the links at the bottom of this post.
Summer always arrives early in northeast Alabama, but its official arrival is Wednesday, June 21st. I am getting a head start by welcoming summer with a garden tablescape.
I love setting tables outdoors whether in the garden, by the woodlands, under the pergola, or on the Sunshine Cottage porch. Our weather normally allows three seasons for alfresco dining.
The Sunshine Cottage was conveniently built close to the garden table. I planned for ample storage of dishware, which makes it easier to set outdoor tables.
My inspiration for a tablescape can derive from many things…linens…dishes…flowers…c
You may have already noticed that the table is rather simple allowing the garden to be the star!
Iridescent stemware adds a little sparkle to the table! These Rachel Zoe wine glasses were purchased at TJ Maxx a few years ago.
From this angle, you get a peek into the cottage garden.
I have always loved April Cornell linens and have collected them for many years. With my love for English Country, AC’s floral patterns appeal to my design style. A romantic ‘cottage rose’ square breakfast cloth tops a pink ‘forget me not’ round tablecloth.
You will notice only a dinner and salad plate…no charger or dessert plate. The woven placemats add texture, which is an important element of tablescaping.
RM placed twinkling lights in the garden and replaces them as needed. It adds a beautiful ambiance for alfresco dining!
From the first time I saw the Williams Sonoma ‘Rose Famille’ collection, I was smitten. Last year I finally gave in and purchased dinner plates in blue. You can see how I used them in The Blessing of Easter (spring blog hop).
By changing linens and adding Stechol Gracie chintz salad plates, (a new purchase that I couldn’t resist) the tablescape looks entirely different than my Easter table. Tip: purchasing salad plates give you more styling options even with white everyday dinner plates. The bonus is salad plates are significantly lower in price and are easier to store.
As the sun begins to set, light changes quickly.
This is another view of the garden…
…and another with RM’s workshop in the background…
…and one more as twilight cast shadows over the garden. With this tablescape, I took a different approach by keeping the elements on the table simple, allowing the garden to be the star. Of course, the ‘Invincibelle Spirit’ hydrangeas are quite amazing!
Be sure to click on each link below for fabulous summer inspiration for your tables! You will be delighted by all of the talent and creativity!
Panoply – Up, Up and Away With Summer Dining
Home is Where the Boat Is – Hydrangeas and Butterflies
Everyday Living – Welcoming Summer With A Garden Tablescape
Life and Linda – A Boho Alfresco Tablescape
Corner of Plaid and Paisley – Summer Plaid and Polka Dot Picnic
Living With Thanksgiving – Summer Blessings
Debbee’s Buzz – Alfresco Bee Theme Table and Florals
The Painted Apron – Boats, Floats and Fish!
The Little Yellow Corner Store – Pucker Up Lemony Tablescape – It is Time to Have a Bee-utiful Day!
The Cat’s Whiskerz – A summer picnic tablescape for Canada Day
Pandora’s Box – Summer Blues
Me and My Captain – Florida Blue Crab Summer Tablescape
From My Carolina Home – Welcome Summer Tablescapes
The Bookish Dilettante – Summer Tablescape: Old Glory
My Thrift Store Addiction – Summer Picnic Brunch under the Texas Mountain Laurel
Red Cottage Chronicles – Lemon Tablescape for Summer
Hyacinths for the Soul – Long May She Wave
Celebrating Everyday Life – Create a Chic Seashell Table Setting This Summer
Dinner at Eight – A Summer of Colors
Bluesky at Home – Pretty Table for a Ladies Dinner Party
Thank you for your visit and gracious comments. I wish you a joy-filled and safe summer!
Linking with: Pieced Pastimes, Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
Imparting Grace,Life and Linda
Good Morning Pam, What a beautiful table to welcome summer…in your garden! I always admire your beautiful collection of April Cornell linens and I love your pretty dishes too. Your new Gracie chintz salad plates are a perfect match for the floral border of your table topper! I have dish envy every time I see your pretty ‘Rose Famille’ plates. Gorgeous hydrangeas, how fortunate you are to have a friend with a hydrangea farm! I love the sparkle your goblets add to the table with reflection of the pink hydrangeas and the angle of the sunlight. As always, it’s a treat to join you at the table and hop with you. Happy Tuesday. ♥
Thanks so much, Mary. The hydrangea farm is amazing!
I’ve never seen the ‘Invincibelle Spirit’ hydrangea before! It has such a dainty blossom and is very elegant. Your garden is gorgeous! Your photography is excellent.Photographing crystal is hard and you nailed it. I love the change in lighting photos. So stunning!
You do so well styling April Cornell linens and changing them up for different looks. This one is a show stopper!
Thank you, Bonnie. I am finally enjoying my new camera. It is hard to learn new tricks!
Another beautiful outdoor table, your English County look says summer garden. Your flowers are so pretty, my hydrangeas are not blooming yet. Those iridescent wine glasses are lovely.
Thank you, Carole!
I love this, Pam. I think that is one of the most beautiful April Cornell linens I have ever seen. I love her linens! Everything looks beautiful and make sure you don’t drop that vase!!!! xo Diana
Thanks so much, Diana. I could not believe the present cost of the canister!
Oh my goodness, Pam, those hydrangeas are truly breathtaking. They go perfectly with your April Cornell linens. I love how the stemware reflects the rosy pink color. And what a lovely touch with the twinkling lights. (Our rain chance Sunday night turned into a ferocious lightning storm with 5” of rain; 4 houses in our county, unfortunately, were hit by lightning and burned to the ground).
Oh no, Roxanne that is so tragic. Those families with their house gone is so very sad. I am assuming they are safe. We have so very little rain, but we could get storms today and tomorrow. Rain is needed, but hopefully no storms. Thank you for your lovely comments, sweet friend!
What a lovely setting in your garden – All of your flower patterns coordinate so well for a summer gathering. The hydrangeas are a perfect centerpiece and I can’t wait for mine to bloom. Have a wonderful summer!
Thank you, Patti!
Pam, your garden tablescape makes me giddy on several fronts, and I want to be there! The Invincibelle Spirit hydrangeas reminded me of strawberries and cream right away, so soft. The glimpses of the garden (I love the lights Butch added!) are so welcoming, especially before the heat and humidity become the everyday norm. Everything looks so fresh with the roses layered, from the tablecloth to the chintz salads on the Rose Famille dinners. Beautiful! The iridescent stems are also really pretty. Amen to salad plates as a trick of the tablescaping trade, for both versatility and storage! What a nice addition you’ve made in both purchases of your plates. Thank you for delivering your beautiful style today as part of this hop.
Thank you, Rita. I keep saying I will not purchase any more dishes, and then I saw the chintz plates! Oh well!!
Oh so pretty in pink Pam, your centerpiece of pink hydrangeas is beautiful! I love the layered pink patterned cloths and the oh so pretty plates at each place. I know I say this every time, but your garden is such an incredible setting for all your tables! I love the twinkle lights, so pretty! The goblets are lovely too~ your table has a wonderful welcoming feel, I would love to sit there and linger in your garden!
Jenna
Jenna, thank you so much!
Roxanne I’m praying for those families that lost their homes. It can so easily happen to us. Pam I’m in love with the pink under cloth. I’m all about pink but then I like the well pressed napkins, the Williams Sonoma plates and the expensive vase. April
Cornell cloths so well made are all so tempting. I always knew there had to be a special place to store the china. Sunshine cottage is ideal. RM’s work shows up in all your post. That beautiful garden. Have a blessed week.
Pam Anonymous I’m not. This is Alice.
I thought it was you, Alice.
Thank you, Alice. Your comments warm my heart. I hope you are having a great week, my friend!
Pam, a beautiful welcome to summer. Your floral centerpiece is stunning with those pink hydrangeas. You have the prettiest April Cornell linens and this one is no exception. Love the woven placemats with your Williams Sonoma ‘Rose Famille” and new chinz plates, The iridescent goblets catch the sunlight perfectly. I love your garden with Sunshine cottage in the background. The twinkle lights are a lovely addition. I would enjoy sitting there and admiring your gorgeous gardens. Always a pleasure Pam hopping along with you.
Thank so much, Linda! As you know gardening is hard work.
Wow this is all so lovely! Those hydrangeas steal the show and I like the large container holding them. Beautiful tablecloths and those dishes are wonderful! Beautifully done!
Thank you, Liz. I appreciate your sweet visit!
I always enjoy it when you invite us to your English Gardens! Sitting at your table is always an added bonus. I love the new salad plates and your linens make me smile.
The flowers from the hydrangea farm are quite special!
Thanks for a lovely day at your place.
Happy Day to you dear friend!
Thank you, Nancy. I am so happy you joined me today! Have a wonderful week!
Oh my, those pink hydrangeas! They are a different color pink than most I’ve seen — just the slightest bit dusty, which I really like — not quite so bold! It’s such a gorgeous table, Pam.
Thank you, Jeanie. They are a dusty pink!
Absolutely lovely Pam! Those hydrangeas!! And your table linens! I just ordered my first April Cornells and I can’t wait to get them! I’m inspired as always by your beautiful table and your beautiful garden! I’m definitely taking notes! Thanks, and Happy Summer!
Happy Summer and thank you Barbara. I know you will enjoy the AC linens!
Pam, each time you post these visions of your gorgeous property, my heart does a little flip. You have many beautiful choices for alfresco tables, and how lucky to have 3 seasons to enjoy them. Your linens and dishes are picture perfect for your garden setting, and how wise to plan for that dish storage in the Sunshine Cottage. I’m having hydrangea envy. What a perfect color!
Thank you. Sarah.
SO pretty. I love everything about the tablescape. I think your choice of a clear glass container for the hydrangeas is perfect—it sparkles and elevates your eyes to the floral beauty. I would someday love to add Hydrangea Arborescens ‘Invincibelle Spirit’ to my garden—such a pretty pink.
Thanks for sharing your lovely post. It’s truly swoon-worthy.
Cindie, your sweet comments are heartwarming. The hydrangeas are a beautiful soft pink and the blooms are
large!
Pam, what a beautiful table you have set to welcome summer! You have such lovely AC linens and I love how you showcase them. The pink hydrangeas are gorgeous and how great to live near your friend’s hydrangea farm. I have long admired the beautiful Rose Famille plates and the new Stechol Gracie chintz salads are a gorgeous addition to your collection. The Sunshine Cottage and the gardens in the background make for a calm and peaceful setting. Its all just lovely. Thanks for sharing your creativity and wishing you a very happy summer!
Thanks so much, Kim!
Pam, you have a friend with a hydrangea farm? — you lucky, lucky girl! The pink flowers are beautiful and make a gorgeous centerpiece, with your stunning landscape and garden in the background. Love that print tablecloth and texture of the placemats. And how very pretty they look with those special glasses and plate patterns. Always love a visit to the Sunshine Cottage.
Thank you, Debbee!
Pam I have always loved your collection of April Cornell linens and when you pair that with those beautiful pink hydrangeas. Stunning! I Love how you used woven placemats with your Williams Sonoma ‘Rose Famille” and your new Gracie Chintz plates. So pretty. I always enjoy your gardens and the lighting is magic happening. What a wonderful setting for your table. Thank you my friend for yet another inspiring table setting. Have a great and glorious summer. Blessings Always
Thank you, Kari for your sweet comments!
Pam, you always set the prettiest tables, and I am smitten with your gorgeous hydrangea bouquet! Beautiful!
Thank you, Cecilia!
I love your gorgeous setting AND tablescape, Pam! I’ve never seen hydrangeas like yours. The little blossoms are so tiny and pretty! I also love the gorgeous mauve color. I, too, love April Cornell, and your table square and tablecloth are so bright and cheerful. When I saw your plate stack, I sighed. The floral patterns are so pretty! They are perfect for the garden table setting. I also love the wine goblets: the iridescence is so much fun! You are very talented, and have a great eye. 😀 Happy summer!
Ricki Jill, thank you for your sweet comments!
Everything is so very pretty Pam. I just love those hydrangeas. So beautiful! I hope that you have a beautiful week. Hugs and blessings, Cindy
Happy week to you, Cindy and thank you!
Such a pretty table that’s certainly a match for your lovely garden! All the table details add to the effect but it was the iridescent stemware that caught my eye, probably because the summer light shimmered through them. It’s such a pleasure to join you in the garden, Pam! Afternoons and evenings there would be wonderful!
Thank you, Sandra. You have a beautiful collection of stemware!
I love love the hydrangeas. Those are my fave flowers. Your table clothes are just beautiful. Very sweet and fun for a summer meal outdoors. Have a great new week. Hugs. Kris
Thank you, Kris!
The pink hydrangeas are so eye catching, and you did a magnificent job creating a very inviting and romantic table setting!
You are so sweet and thank you, Mary!
You are an artist.
Amalia
xo
How sweet you are, Amalia!
Pam, you have set the most beautiful garden table! It makes me feel like I am in a cottage garden in the Cotswolds! And, those hydrangeas! Wow!! I will be on the look out for that variety. They are stunning. Your simple plate stack speaks for itself with the gorgeous florals. The iridescent stemware is so subtle, yet so pretty. What a wonderful place to sit and enjoy an evening summer meal 🙂
Thanks so much, Marsha. I still want to visit the Cotswolds!
So Sorry, I meant Maureen.
Pam, I am at awe over your lovely tablescape. I am also fond of April Cornell tablecloths. There is so much you can create with them. Your combination of plates provide some contrast and yet works so beautifully with the pattern. Stunning! Even the detail of the glassware being iridescent uniquely matches the colors in your setting. The vintage look of the pink hydrangeas give it a classic look. So beautiful at any time of the day. Happy Summer.
Thanks so much, Marsha!
Thank You for sharing your lovely tablescape.
Marilyn,Joan and Marion
My pleasure sweet friends!
Pam, Your alfresco table is gorgeous! The beautiful pinks, blues, and yellows are very festive. The hydrangeas are so pretty. Your AC linens are always delightful. We’ve had a couple of low humidity, mild temp days this week that were conducive to alfresco dining. We took that opportunity! I love your plates too. Happy Thursday! Clara❤️
Thank you so much, Clara. I am so glad you could enjoy lower humidity and mild temps. Have a lovely weekend!
Oh my goodness, Pam!! Those Hydrangeas are off the hook beautiful!!!! I mean truly – WOW!!!! They’re absolutely perfect with your tablescape. From linens to dishes to blooms – this is such a soothing and welcoming summer setting. It is such a joy to see the extra views of your yard too! Everything is picture-perfect!!!! What a joy to celebrate with you. Happy Summer! ❤️ Jennifer @ Celebrating Everyday Life ❤️
Thank you, Jennifer ♥️
Such an inviting setting Pam! And looks so warm in our cold months. Very pretty indeed.
Blessings sweet friend, Jennifer
Thank you, Jennifer. It is definitely warm here!
Pam, as always, you have set the most beautiful summer garden tablescape. Your linens and dishes are so pretty. Of course, your flowers are the stars. I would love to visit an hydrangea farm. How beautiful it must be.
Thanks so much, Carol. You would love the hydrangea farm!
Pam, those pink hydrangeas are gorgeous! They caught my eye first thing. Everything is so beautiful on your table from the linens to the place settings. I am quite smitten with those Famille Rose dishes. Eventually, I’m going to have to give in and purchase some of the pieces. They are so pretty! As always, your garden is such a lovely backdrop to your table. Sorry I’m behind on commenting. Our summer has been very busy. It is always such a joy to visit your beautiful blog. Have a wonderful week, my dear friend!
Thank you for taking time to always comment, Shannon. Enjoy your summer my friend!
Pam
This is just beautiful! So relaxing and inviting. Visiting from Love Your Creativity.
I love how you layered the square tablecloth over the round, and the colors compliment so nicely. The hydrangeas are simply stunning! And I really love the iridescent glasses. So pretty!
Thank you, dear one!