Summer Entertaining, on a dime!

It looks like the sun might actually come out in Seattle this week. Not one to waste Vitamin D, we will be entertaining outside!

I have loved seeing the melamine dishware--some even monogrammed--that has graced the pages of Elle Decor and House Beautiful this month. Such lovely things and I do think a set of these would look AMAZING at our backyard table.

The reality of our backyard table, however, is that it lives on a soon-to-be replaced deck. So, our dinnerware has come from some sneaky sources.

The Midsommar plate set (in red, set of 4 for $1.99 at Ikea) is happily paired with braided placements (World Market, $15.96 for four).

Napkins get to stand out at our table and when we are entertaining with children, paper is usually the best call. I was charmed by the Midsommar collection (also at Ikea, $2.49 for 30).

Adding some real glassware might feel like a nice contrast with the plastic plates. I think I would, however, embrace the durability of plastic and break out my melamine tumblers.

Happy Almost Summer!

Midsommar Plates and Napkins, Ikea.com
Braided Placemats, World Market
Melamine Glasses, Graham and Green