It’s here! Find nostalgic pieces for bright, beloved traditions and unfolding joy. Shop the holiday collection.

Coming January 28: Jo’s New Children’s Book, The World Needs the Wonder You See. Pre-Order Today.

The fall issue of Magnolia Journal is out on newsstands. Subscribe Now.

Your Summer Table: Five Ways

by Magnolia
Published on June 1, 2022

Anything that grounds us in the present moment is worth holding onto. When it comes to time around the table, pulling plates off the shelf, gathering linens from the cupboard, and creating an inviting scene slows us down. It reminds us that every moment spent together is worth those simple, intentional gestures, whether it’s a special weekend brunch or weeknight takeout. 

To help you set a welcoming table of your own, we’ve expanded our tabletop collection so you can find even more styles, textures, and colors you love. Using some of those pieces, we’ve put together five place setting looks for you to borrow from or use as inspiration for your summer gatherings.

Note: Don’t worry about following “rules” or proper etiquette as you set your table. Whether you’re drawn to a neatly arranged scene or prefer a more organic, thrown-together aesthetic, style the scene in a way that feels beautiful and inviting to you. No matter the occasion, sometimes it’s the smallest flourishes that remind us that life is good and worth celebrating.

Classic + Collected

Why we love this look: The subtle blend of pattern and texture creates a casual, summery feel, but the fluted details elevate the scene. Plus, the placemat makes for easy cleanup.

Where this set can stand out: Sunroom or outdoor patio

Bring it home: Amelia Place Squaremat, Jolie Fluted Plates and Bowls, Vintage Flatware Set, Blue Stripe Napkin, Leather Napkin Ring, Rustic Glass Tumbler

A Summer Staple

Why we love this look: The black-and-white combination is classic in any season, but the terracotta napkin and woven ring brighten the scene in a way that feels just right for a summer meal with friends.

Where this set can stand out: Indoor breakfast nook or dining table

Bring it home: Black Rimmed Plates and Bowls, Terracotta Border Napkin, Natural Woven Napkin Ring, Matte Black Flatware, Duncan Light Grey Tumbler

Timeless Nostalgia

Why we love this look: The checkered napkin paired with vintage-inspired dishware feels both nostalgic and timeless. Versatile staples never go out of style for everyday meals.

Where this set can stand out: Indoors or out—it fits in anywhere!

Bring it home: Vintage Blue Stripe Plates and Bowls, Heather Taylor Home Soho Black Napkin, Alba Silver Flatware, Ribbed Glass Tumbler

The Finer Things

Why we love this look: When an occasion calls for something a little more refined, these terracotta-hued, etched stoneware plates bring beauty and intention to the table, and the gold flatware elevates the scene.

Where this set can stand out: Indoor dining table

Bring it home: Eva Stoneware Dinner Plate, Bowl + Dessert Plate, Teal Fringe Edge Napkin, Antique Gold Flatware, Duncan Light Grey Tumbler Small

Traditional + Neutral

Why we love this look: These simple, neutral pieces allow the food to shine. They can also seamlessly blend with existing pieces or others from our tabletop collection.

Where this set can stand out: Indoors or out

Bring it home: Clayton Square Placemat, Magnolia Est. Plates and Bowl, Black Grid Napkin, Antique Gold Flatware, Elizabeth Bottle Cut Tumbler Small

shop tabletop

Complete the Look

Linens make a lovely final layer to any tablescape, which is why we’re so excited to introduce our newest collection—all designed by our team here in Waco, Texas.

Using them frequently at home, Jo has wanted to offer our own line of linens for several years. They’re an easy way to spruce up simple meals, and it’s fun to let family or guests get creative by inviting them to choose a look for the occasion. Our new linens are made with absorbent, durable cotton, and can be used at your table, in your kitchen, on your patio, or anywhere you’d like to elevate your everyday.

shop new linens