When the sun starts to linger a little longer, and the evenings become warm and inviting, many of us feel the call to entertain outdoors. There’s something particularly magical about summer gatherings – the gentle rustle of leaves, the scent of fresh-cut grass, and the joyful hum of conversations under a twilight sky. However, for some, like Harriet Langford, a freelance event stylist from Surrey, the true magic lies in the details. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Harriet to discuss her philosophy on summer entertaining, focusing on creating a space that feels light, airy, and effortlessly elegant.
“I’ve always believed that less is more, especially when it comes to setting a table,” Harriet began, her eyes lighting up with passion. “In summer, I want everything to feel light and breathable, not just for aesthetic reasons but for comfort too. Nobody wants to feel cramped or overwhelmed by a cluttered table when they’re dining al fresco.”
Harriet’s approach to entertaining is refreshingly simple yet profoundly thoughtful. She draws heavily on nature, often incorporating seasonal fruits and vegetables into her table settings. “Using fruits and vegetables as decorations is not only beautiful but practical,” she explained. “I might place a few lemons, limes, or even a small cluster of tomatoes along the centre of the table. They add a pop of colour, and I can use them later in my cooking – nothing goes to waste.”
As we chatted, Harriet shared some of her favourite seasonal pairings. “In summer, I’m all about peaches, cherries, and of course, the ever-versatile tomato. A simple arrangement of peaches in a wooden bowl can become a stunning centrepiece. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter, and guests can help themselves if they fancy a fresh snack.”
Harriet’s love for simplicity extends beyond the table décor. Her menu choices are equally uncomplicated yet flavourful, drawing inspiration from Mediterranean and local produce. “I like to serve dishes that let the ingredients speak for themselves, especially in summer when everything is so fresh,” she said. “Think ripe tomatoes paired with creamy burrata, drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. Or a salad of grilled peaches with rocket and goat’s cheese.”
Her culinary style is very much about letting the quality of the ingredients shine. “If you use what’s in season, you don’t need to do much to make it taste incredible,” she smiled, clearly relishing the thought of these vibrant flavours.
When it comes to the overall atmosphere, Harriet emphasises the importance of creating a relaxed, welcoming environment. “I want my guests to feel at ease, like they can kick off their shoes and just enjoy the moment,” she said. “Soft lighting is key. I love using fairy lights or lanterns as the sun sets; they add warmth and charm without overpowering the natural beauty of the setting.”
She also spoke about the significance of music in setting the right mood. “A carefully curated playlist can transform a gathering. I usually opt for something light and melodic, maybe some acoustic tunes or a bit of jazz. It should enhance the atmosphere, not dominate it.”
As we wrapped up our conversation, Harriet offered one final piece of advice for those looking to elevate their summer entertaining. “Stay true to your style and comfort level. It’s easy to get caught up in what you think you should be doing, but the best gatherings are those where the host is relaxed and genuinely enjoying themselves. That energy is contagious.”
Her words resonated with me long after our meeting, a testament to her thoughtful approach to entertaining. Harriet Langford reminds us that the heart of any gathering lies not in the grandeur of the setting but in the warmth and simplicity of the experience. As we prepare for our next summer soirée, perhaps we too can embrace this ethos, creating spaces that are as delightful as they are inviting.
Diana Tahjmir
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