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Warm summer tablescape featuring a bright bouquet of red and yellow flowers, red gingham napkins, a tray of fresh strawberries, and vintage glassware under cozy candlelight.
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Strawberry Gingham Summer Tablescape with Country Cottage Charm

Create a charming Strawberry Gingham Summer Tablescape with cozy country cottage touches, fresh strawberries, and cheerful gingham. This easy guide shows you how to bring farmhouse charm and simple country decor to your summer table in just a few steps.
Prep Time30 minutes
Active Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Cozy Home
Yield: 1 Tablescape
Author: Emily Rider
Cost: $0-$100

Equipment

  • 1 Pair of scissors For trimming ribbons and flower stems.
  • 1 Measuring tape Optional – to center placemats evenly
  • 1 Small watering can If using fresh flowers from your garden

Materials

  • 6 pieces Oatmeal linen placemats or any soft neutral color
  • 6 pieces White dinner plates Classic white plates or any simple style
  • 6 pieces White linen napkins Tied with red gingham ribbon
  • 1 roll Red and white gingham ribbon For wrapping napkins
  • 1 set Vintage silverware Mismatched styles work beautifully
  • 6 pieces Vintage glassware Whitehall-style or any clear glasses
  • 1 stand Two-tiered hammered aluminum stand For strawberry centerpiece
  • 1 pieces Strawberry-printed bowl Optional – to hold lemons
  • 1 bunch Fresh strawberries For decorating the table centerpiece
  • 1 bunch Fresh lemons Scatter on the table for pops of color
  • 1 bunch Yellow daisies Or baby’s breath and red gerberas
  • 2 holders Vintage brass candle holders For red tapered candles
  • 2 candles Red tapered candles Adds cozy, glowing charm

Instructions

  • Lay oatmeal linen placemats evenly across your table, letting the natural wood peek through.
  • Set each place with a white dinner plate, a folded white linen napkin tied with red gingham ribbon.
  • Arrange vintage silverware and vintage glassware at each setting to add sparkle and charm.
  • Build the centerpiece with a two-tiered aluminum stand filled with fresh strawberries.
  • Tuck a strawberry-printed bowl of lemons near the centerpiece for added color and texture.
  • Tuck a strawberry-printed bowl of lemons near the centerpiece for added color and texture.
  • Add two vintage brass candle holders with red tapered candles to create a cozy, glowing feel.
  • Scatter a few fresh lemons across the table to complete the cheerful country summer look.

Notes

  • If you’re new to decorating tablescapes, start simple: layer linens first, then add plates, napkins, and centerpiece last.
  • Choose lightweight linens like cotton or linen blends. They drape naturally and create an effortless, relaxed farmhouse feel.
  • Mix old and new pieces — a vintage teapot, thrifted plates, or a new gingham ribbon — for a charming, lived-in look.
  • Fresh strawberries are perfect for summer decor. Rinse and dry them well before using them around the centerpiece.
  • For a sweet and edible twist, dip strawberries in white or dark chocolate. They’ll add a dessert element and still look beautiful as part of the decor.
  • Use different textures — rustic wood, smooth glass, soft linen — to make your table feel cozy, inviting, and layered.
  • Keep your floral arrangements low and casual. You want guests to easily see each other across the table without tall arrangements blocking the view.
  • If you don’t have matching plates or glasses, mix similar color tones (like whites, creams, or soft pastels) for a pulled-together, intentional look.
  • Gingham ribbon is an easy, inexpensive way to tie napkins or decorate chairs. It’s cheerful, classic, and instantly cozy.
  • Add a few small bowls of fresh strawberries around the table for extra color — and an easy, healthy snack your guests can enjoy.