“Make your outdoor space feel warm and inviting. Set your table using vibrant placemats. Fill the center of the table with small cactus plants in concrete planters along with candles. Make a large, cold pitcher of water filled with citrus and mint and always serve your rosé chilled.”
—Wendy Strauss, Strauss House Designs, LLC, Chappaqua
“Set a practical table using melamine plates and glasses. There are so many options with great patterns and colors, they make for a lovely and fun table. Plus, they are no-brainers when you have kids on the guest list.”
—Nancy Davilman, ND Interiors, Larchmont
“Go big on dessert time! Have pie, ice cream, and bowls of mixed berries. Buy your shortcake, biscuits, lemon tart, or fruit pie, to make it easier for yourself. Keep it all seasonal and hyper-local.”
—Ned Kelly, Ned Kelly & Company, Piermont
“Move tables outside and transform your backyard with lighting — lots of votive candles, strings of tiny LED lights on the table, hanging twinkle lights in the yard or on the porch. Then add real linens for the table setting. Don’t wait for that special occasion as every day is special!”
—Kim A. Mitchell, KAM Design, Larchmont