Gathering family and friends for informal summer lunches is what summer is all about: the days are longer; the warm weather brings an element of relaxation and the abundance of seasonal ingredients allows for easy menu planning.

Taking the time to set a pretty table is half the fun, and with our magic formula you cannot go wrong:

• Place the table in a shady spot away from the sun.
• Setting the table, go for a neutral tablecloth, white serving pieces and plates. We frequently use white ceramics as they are versatile, allowing you to add elements of colour, different elements and textures if you so choose.
• Incorporate everything you have, the casual and the formal, silver, china and stemware.
• Play around with the summer theme and doing things differently; here we used a coral centrepiece as an alternative to flowers.
• Make use of candles, as they add a soft light and create a relaxed atmosphere.

This is more or less what it takes to set a summer table, soak up the summer atmosphere and enjoy the company of family and friends…