Don’t you love the lazy days of summer? I know I do, and it’s the perfect excuse to slow down, look around and enjoy the simple things in life. Like they say “stop and smell the roses” and this table embraces that intention. This table styling is inspired by roses and provides a serene and peaceful setting. Join me as we set a vintage rose garden inspired table.
Roses take center stage in this table design and provide a moody vintage feel, which is my jam. You can follow the same formula I use with a modern, industrial, art deco, etc. look, depending on what type of roses you use and how you choose to use them.
Key Takeaways
How to Set a Summer Table Inspired By Roses
> Stop and smell the roses is about slowing down and enjoying life’s details
> The summer rose table details include plate stack, place setting, centerpiece and more
> Tips and Recommendations on Mastering the Art of setting a well appointed table
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Inspiration to Stop and Smell the Roses on a Summer Table
Shifting to the lazy days of summer relaxed intension
Earlier in the season I shared a vintage summer rose mantel styling where I used the DIYed metal tole rose candlesticks. Today we’re taking it a step further, where we set the table with the same vintage rose look.
Summer brings with it more relaxed schedules with more time spent outside and it’s meant for us to slow down and enjoy the simple joys of life. This table is set with all the linger longer intentions where we stop to smell the roses, taking a beat from busy schedules, too many obligations and unnecessary demands. Take a seat at our table, press the pause button and sit for awhile.
MJ Inside Table Styling Tip:
Let something that inspires guide you to plan, design and set an intentional and thoughtful table for your family and guests. You don’t necessarily need “themed” tabletop pieces, but rather lean into colors, patterns and textures to evoke the theme. This makes basic dish ware more versatile and extends their worth.
Details of the Stop to Smell the Roses Table Styling
This table uses dried cream roses in varied ways, creating a vintage moody vibe. Fresh roses would of course also be a fantastic choice, and use petal colors which appeal to you too. I used whites and creams for the table design to keep with a peaceful emotion for a relaxed experience.
The oldest form of theater is the dinner table…
~MICHAEL J. FOX
Plate Stack
The plate stack is very neutral with rose accents on dish-ware and a dried rose bloom crowning the display. The butter pat with the rose is a decorative detail which just adds a touch of special to the ambience, but it could also be tucked above the plate stack with a name card if you wish to give it more purpose. Personally, I love adding unexpected touches to table stylings to create a festive tone.
- Distressed Cream Plate Charger {Hobby Lobby}
- Lenox Citation Lace Dinner Plate {wedding registry}
- Lenox Citation Lace Side Plate {wedding registry}
- Noritake Chanrose Accent Plate {thrifted}
- Assorted Vintage Butter Pats {thrifted & Antique store}
When we selected our wedding china, one of the things I loved about the Lenox Citation lace pattern is that it combined cream and white, which lends itself to mix and match with different porcelain families. On it’s own the pattern is neutral and monochromatic, which can be dressed up for many holidays and occasions.
MJ Inside Table Styling Tip:
Having a basic and neutral foundation for your table setting is an inexpensible staple to include in your tabletop arsenal. A white linen tablecloth, white dinner plates, basic glassware are all items you will use time and time again, which can be coordinated with other colors, patterns, themes, etc. for specific holidays and occasions.
Place Setting
The place setting details are mismatched with intention. The glassware includes a cut crystal Waterford goblet with my grandparents’ etched, gold rimmed water glass. The silverware includes my parent’s sterling silver with the Laguiole ivory steak knives. I love the touch of color the ivory handles on the knives bring to the setting. On a total side note, these knives are amazing! I mentioned how much I liked them when I was in a boutique with my cousin one day and guess what I got for Christmas that year? Yup! You guessed it. I use them frequently and my family always comments how fabulous they are. And here we are.
- Camusso Sterling Silverware {inherited | wedding gift}
- Ivory steak knife {Laguiole}
- Waterford Barrymore Wine Goblet {wedding registry}
- Gold Rimmed Etched water glasses {inherited}
- Lace Trimmed Cream Napkin {Amazon}
The cream napkins have a lace trimmed edge, which coordinates with the lace tablecloth and runner. I love the layering of the linens adding texture, contrast and interest. Layering linens is a great way to add depth and dimension to a table setting. The linens are mixed between white and creams, which ties in with the china.
Centerpiece
The name of the game here is roses and more roses upon roses. From the dried rose and eucalyptus bouquet in the French enamel pot to the rose tole Anthropologie dupe candlesticks, to the faux tiered cake to the scattered rose buds.
- White Linen Lace Table Cloth {inherited}
- Italian Cream Embroidered Oval Runner {gifted}
- DIYed metal tole rose candlesticks {Dollar Tree – DIY}
- Vintage Green Enamel Coffee Pot {French Antique Dealer}
- Pedestal Marble Plate {thrifted DIY}
- Tins Faux Cake with Dried Roses {thrifted DIY}
- Lenox cups with Sand Wax Candles {thrifted DIY}
- Dried Roses and Eucalyptus
The table is anchored by the lace white tablecloth layered with a cream embroidered table runner. The runner was a gift from some friends this past Christmas, which they picked-up on a trip to Italy. I know it will quickly become one of my go to pieces simply for the thought and sentiment behind it plus love the vintage vibe.
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Tips & Recommendations to Keep In Mind When Setting the Table
Identify, Curate & Ground the Theme
A theme whether a holiday, motif or color palette is always a good place to start for a table design. The main theme here is the rose motif, playing off the “stop and smell the roses” idiom to provide a relaxed summer table. Beyond the roses the table is set with neutral tones of white and creams, with subtle pops of color. Other options to include the rose motif include embroidered linens or rose etched glassware or rose embellished printables for a menu or place cards.
Shop your Home First
I’m a big proponent of shopping your home first and looking for decor and pieces you can use in unexpected ways. The unexpected always makes for a special touch. I didn’t buy anything new here, just leaned into my stuff. I chose to use the vintage French enamel coffee pot as a vase since the green coordinates with the rose DIY candle sticks, tying the centerpiece together. The dried roses in the coffee pot arrangement, faux tiered cake and plate stack topper bring the table styling together.
Layer Patterns & Textures
Including varied patterns and textures on a table-scape adds interest, depth and character. The plate stack is layered with different patterns with a splash of color on the thrifted rose accent plate. The linens are layered from the tablecloth to the table runner to the napkins. Although they are all slightly different they still remain cohesive by the style. Layering textures and patterns adds a richness to the overall table design.
Mix & Match
Mixing and matching table top pieces allows freedom to play and removes the pressure to follow any set rules. This allows all the mismatched pieces to shine and add charm and character to any table styling. You don’t need to have a matching set of anything to set a thoughtful and pretty table. The varied layers actually provide added interest to the table and might be conversation starter. Notice the plates are varied, the silverware is assorted and the glassware is mismatched yet they all play well together to achieve a relaxed summer feel.
Add a Touch of Special
Use details which reinforce the theme and bring it to life. The rose bloom on the butter pat which crowns the plate stack is a simple detail which smiles up at each guest at the table. Some might find this unnecessary or useless, but that’s the point. It’s simply there to be pretty and add a special touch. I usually remove these type of details right before serving diner so it doesn’t interfere with the meal. If they are a favor for the guests I place them in a basket or on a tray by the front door. If they are simply decor, I move them to the sideboard to remain decorative.
Amp the Ambiance
Proper lighting can make or break the ambience. Candlelight always sets a festive tone and is reinforced here with the DIY rose candlesticks and Lenox cup sand candles, which brings lights high and low on a table. Always keep in mind to not use scented candles on a dining table since the scents will compete with the aromas of the food. Smell affects taste and you don’t want to interfere with the flavors of the meal either.
DIYs are your Friend
Creating your own decor and table accents creates a charming homespun atmosphere which is unique and has your own personal style. Besides adding character, DIY pieces tend to be more economical than newly bought options. If you are a decor DIYer or creative crafter, you might enjoy the projects below.
MJ Crafting Pro Tip:
Creativity improves our mental health by elevating mood, lowering anxiety and reducing stress. By regulating our emotions through creative endeavors provides a sense of control and empowerment. Not only does it make us feel better, but it also makes our homes look amazing.
More Summer, garden and vintage decor is scheduled on the blog. If you don’t want to miss any new content, you might enjoy following along. Sign up and receive all new posts directly into your in-box. We would love to welcome you to the Masterpiece community.
More Related Tablescape Posts
Closing Thoughts ~ Conclusion on the Stop & Smell the Roses Table Setting
I hope you enjoyed the “stop and smell the roses” summer table setting and it inspires you to set a pretty summer table of your own to relax and enjoy with loved ones. It’s a great theme for a bridal shower or anniversary celebration. Also you don’t have to necessarily use roses, but instead take some of the methods here and apply them to a summer theme that resonates with you.
Thanks for stopping by today, and I hope to see you again soon. It’s always lovely having you here.
Au revoir!
FAQs – Rose Summer Table
Q1. How can I create a cohesive look with my place settings?
A1. The key to a polished table design is to layer, mix and match with intention. Start with a foundation like a tablecloth and build from there. Place mats and plate chargers add an attention to detail plus decorative plates and glassware include an air of festivity. Use patterns and textures to create interest and use finishing touches like wrapping silverware in decorative ribbons or personalized place cards.
Q2. What other motifs work for summer tables besides roses?
A2. There are a variety of themes you can use on a summer table. Other flower varieties like peonies, hydrangeas, dahlias, daisies and the list goes on are perfect for summer. You can also use friendly critters like bees, dragonflies, butterflies or hummingbirds. There’s also summer fruit like watermelon, berries, pineapple or citrus which create a festive summer vibe. Beach, coastal and nautical themes are also perfect for summer, including sea form, marine objects, boating elements and more. Let your imagination guide you.
Q3. Do I need a theme to set a festive summer table?
A3. Absolutely not! A theme helps guide a table styling but you can let colors, patterns and style guide you as well. Setting a casual table with checks, enamelware and galvanized pieces is perfect for summer. A more elegant table can be set using rattan and layered lighting. Use what you own and like, making it yours!
Shop the Rose Summer Table Setting Look
- Lenox Dinnerware Set, Eternal 5-Piece Place Setting
- Lenox French Perle Groove 12-Piece Plate & Bowl
- White Antique Charger Plate
- Laguiole Ivory Steak Knife
- Waterford Markham Goblet
- Waterford Lismore Balloon Wine Glass
- Lace Tablecloth Exquisite Embroidery Floral
- Flax Linen Cloth Napkins with Lace – Set of 12
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A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.”
William Shakespeare