Summer Bee’s Knees

As I thought about my summer look, I wanted a fresh take on my bee theme. Coming off of the heavy florals of the Spring look, I wanted to simplify the use of flowers. I also found gorgeous golden yellow orbs I wanted to incorporate.

After reviewing last year’s design, instead of using the green placemats (see here), I decide to use a fabric runner (from the William Sonoma Honeycomb Collection). I let them hang far over the table edge for some drama and to see the pattern when entering the room.

I then place the brass and glass hurricanes – largest at the center and the smaller on the ends. I place the candles and then pour the black river pebbles. A single stem of green orchids is bent to circle the candle. Single green thistles are placed for interest and to better fill the space. My floral tip is to buy better quality floral stems when they will be viewed up close. These are real feel orchid stems and their quality helps to keep an elevated overall look.

Next, I place the orbs in groups of two at the sides of the hurricane and finish each end of the table with a single orb. Brass bees and green thistles are placed alternating their orientation to offer a view to each side of the table. So simple and easy!

For the place settings, I start with a black fabric placemat layered with a plastic gold charger – instead of spending $70 for a single Honeycomb Collection charger. I have used these for years and they were only a few dollars each. Using placemats and chargers give depth and color contrast behind the dishes, and also keep the table decorated throughout meal service or when the dishes are being washed. I next place the dinner plate and salad plate for their beautiful gold and black honeycomb and bee patterns. The small appetizer plate holds a rolled black napkin with a brass hexagon ring, mimicking the honeycomb. Black wine and stemless water glasses along with individual salt & pepper set finish the setting. I opt not to set out the flatware to keep a clean look when not dining at the table. Either gold or black flatware will work with this look. Simple arrangements for the side chests and side table bring the theme and color around the dining room. Again, so simple and quick to put together…and still visually impactful!

The Bee theme continues when entering the kitchen and great room space from the dining room. Brass and glass candlesticks repeat the materials of the hurricanes used on the dining table. Golden orbs, green thistles, and brass bees are repeated all the way to the far fireplace mantle. Dish towels, coasters, cocktail picks, drink mix, a beautiful tassel, and beaded bee pillows (bought on sale last year) add a touch of the theme wherever the eye roams. Large stems of green orchids burst out of a mirrored vase and fill the the back wall.

In the living room – a bee pillow, more green florals, and brass bees. And I don’t forget the guest bathroom! Michel Design Works soaps and candles continue the theme and provide a scent of honey!

The final look throughout the home is fresh and simple for the summer months. Seasonal decorating always brings a smile to my face. I hope you are inspired to try something new!

Be sure to follow my blog and check back later for another twist to this Summer Bee’s Knees look!