Let’s be honest… this summer isn’t exactly what we had in mind at the start of 2020. Weddings have been postponed, vacations cancelled, and our social lives are 100% digital. If you’re feeling a bit fatigued by it all, why not amp up your at-home entertaining game? Interior designer Joyce Downing Pickens of JDP Interiors has kept the positivity going by treating her household to a pretty table setting, fun cocktails, and a card game or two. Read on for Joyce’s tips, and head over to our Instagram stories to see it all in action:

1. Make a tablescape out of items you already have laying around your house. You can utilize a favorite throw blanket from your living room, for instance, for the ultimate tablecloth. 

2. When it comes to greenery, I always suggest using what you already have in your yard or on your street. You can snag a few beautiful garden cuttings and use those with your napkins, place settings, and tablescape to bring life to the table. 

3. Twine! In addition to the greenery, I love using twine to complement the table and tie up your napkins for an organic look that pulls everything together.

4. Don’t forget a good cocktail and some fun activities such as cards! We’ve found this combo especially paramount when we’ve been spending all day every day with our loved ones. It keeps things light and fun at the table! 

5. Enjoy!