Planning to host a few more summer get-togethers before the season winds down? To ensure your party comes together easily and effortlessly, look to these tips from design pros around Westchester County. They cover everything from setting the space to serving up dessert, which means you’ll be ready to roll by the time your first guests arrive.
“Summer entertaining means a constant flow from the indoors to the outdoors. Friday afternoon the outdoor dining table is prepared with fresh-cut flowers from the garden and a fun tablecloth. Friday after work is cocktail hour by the pool with a group of girls as we catch up on our week. Food is always a charcuterie board and either tapas or a simple meal of fish tacos. Drinks are rosé and cocktails with fresh herbs from the garden. I always keep the table set through the weekend, as every meal is enjoyed outside.”
—Denise Davies, D2 Interieurs
“Summer is my season. I adore entertaining family and friends on Sunday afternoons with fresh finds from our local farmers market, yummy cocktails, and a game or two of gin rummy. Setting a bright and fun table with my finest china is a must — I believe in enjoying life’s treasures. With rosé in hand, surrounded by loved ones, I relish every moment of summer’s warmth and joy.”
—Dabney Lee Woglom, Dabney Lee
“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
“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
“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
“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
“One of our favorite summer traditions at home is cultivating a lush herb garden, with a special focus on basil. There’s something magical about harvesting fresh leaves to create our signature lemon basil vodka cocktails (recipe below) for a happy hour. We pair the drinks with appetizers like mozzarella Caprese, adding homegrown tomatoes and basil for a burst of fresh flavor. It’s the perfect way to enjoy warm evenings with friends and family, creating memories that last long after summer ends.”
—Alana Irwin, Lulu Home
Lulu Home’s Lemon Basil Cooler
Course: DrinksCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy1
servings10
minutes10
minutesThis lemon basil cooler recipe is perfect for warm Westchester days.
Ingredients
4–5 fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
2 oz vodka
Ice cubes
Soda water (or sparkling water)
Directions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh basil leaves with the lemon juice and simple syrup until the basil is well broken down and aromatic.
- Add the vodka and a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with soda water or sparkling water, then stir gently.
- Garnish with a fresh basil leaf and lemon slice.
Related: 25+ Ways to Enjoy Your Westchester Home This Spring
