The Art of the Summer Tablescape: Styling with Soul
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The Art of the Summer Tablescape: Styling with Soul
By Voyage | New Orleans, LA
There’s something magical about a summer table.
The way the light lingers just a little longer. The clink of handblown glass. The scent of citrus, herbs, and laughter carried on a warm breeze. Whether it’s an intimate dinner for four or a spirited gathering that spills into the night, a well-styled table isn’t just décor—it’s an experience.
At Voyage, we believe a summer party starts at the table—and that the objects you place there should feel as special as the people around it. From Moroccan ceramics to hand-poured votives, our curated collection helps set the scene for effortless, globally inspired gatherings that tell a story with every plate, glass, and bloom.
Here’s how we’re styling the perfect summer tablescape—with soul, substance, and a hint of wanderlust.
1. Set the Tone with Natural Layers
Think of your table as a canvas—and start with texture. Linens in earthy hues or washed neutrals create a soft foundation that doesn’t compete with the vibrancy of hand-glazed pottery or colorful glassware.
Layer textiles intentionally: a natural linen runner down the center, a mix of vintage napkins, or even a woven Moroccan rug as an outdoor base for a low, picnic-style setup. Let imperfection lead—this isn’t about pristine symmetry. It’s about warmth and ease.
Voyage Tip: Try mixing textures like cotton, linen, and jute. Use layered tea towels as impromptu placemats to frame a single plate or ceramic bowl.
2. Mix Ceramics with Personality
Our Moroccan ceramics are the stars of the table. Hand-thrown and hand-painted, each piece is one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re using shallow bowls for citrus salads, ceramic platters for grilled vegetables, or stacked plates in earthy tones, these pieces bring an artisanal authenticity that elevates any dish—no matter how simple.
Don’t be afraid to mix patterns or glaze finishes. Pair soft neutrals with pops of cobalt, terra cotta, or saffron. Balance solid servingware with a bold, patterned centerpiece. When ceramics are made by hand, they’re meant to be seen, touched, and shared.
Style Cue: Use a large tagine base as a fruit bowl or a bread vessel—function meets form in the most unexpected ways.
3. Create Height with Vases and Greenery
Every memorable tablescape needs a focal point. For summer gatherings, we love mixing low florals with tall, sculptural vases. Our Moroccan vases—many in matte or glazed finishes—are perfect for creating vertical dimension without blocking conversation across the table.
In warmer months, skip the fussy arrangements. Instead, opt for single stems, foraged greenery, or loose bundles of bougainvillea, rosemary, or fig branches. The goal is effortless beauty, not perfection.
Styling Trick: Group three vases of varying heights in the center and intersperse with small bowls of olives, lemons, or nuts for a layered, lived-in feel.
4. Add Ambiance with Votives and Light
As the sun dips and the air cools, the right lighting turns a meal into a memory. Our hand-poured Moroccan votives and tea light holders bring a warm, flickering glow that softens the table and invites guests to linger.
Scatter votives down the center or cluster them on trays with ceramics and glassware for a romantic effect. For outdoor parties, we love placing lanterns around the dining area—either freestanding or hanging from tree limbs for a floating effect.
Pro Tip: Mix brass and ceramic candle holders for contrast, and choose unscented candles to let the food and florals shine.
5. Glassware That Captures the Light
Our recycled Moroccan glassware isn’t just practical—it’s poetic. Whether in soft Palm Green, clear blue, or smoke grey, these handblown pieces reflect the light with a subtle shimmer that feels elegant, not fussy.
Use mismatched sets for a relaxed, bohemian vibe. Short tumblers for rosé or spritzes. Tall glasses for sparkling water with citrus. Their gentle imperfections catch the eye and the light, creating a table that feels alive.
Host Hack: Chill glasses before serving and add herb sprigs to drinks for an extra touch of thoughtfulness.
6. Bring in Meaningful Details
The best tables are personal. Tuck a handwritten name card under a ceramic plate. Drape textiles brought back from a favorite trip. Add a family-style dish served in a one-of-a-kind platter you picked up at Voyage. When your table is filled with pieces that carry stories, it becomes more than decor—it becomes a moment.
Voyage Belief: Every gathering is a chance to connect. Let your table reflect not just your taste, but your travels, values, and joy.
Shop the Summer Tablescape Collection
Our Bywater warehouse is stocked with one-of-a-kind Moroccan ceramics, vases, votives, and more—perfect for creating your dream summer table. Many items are available in limited quantities, sourced directly from our artisans abroad and not restocked.
To book a private shopping appointment, email us at hello@voyage-living.com or DM us on Instagram at @voyage.living. We’d love to help you curate a table that feels just as rich in texture and beauty as it does in memory.