Sabrina Soto, Target’s Style Expert for Home, is an upbeat resource for a summer entertaining tips. She created an inspiration board with her colors and pretty tabletop looks (full of Target products of course), that are fresh for a garden party or barbecue. After one look, we had to share, plus we tapped her for a few more tips on everything from lighting to keeping those pesky Minnesota bugs at bay.

Q: What’s an easy upgrade for summer tabletop style?
A: Start with items you already have and upgrade with finishing touches from there.  For example, classic white dinnerware is perfect all year long, but in the summer you can add fresh and fun pieces to your tabletop design to liven it up. Accessorize the dinnerware with fun patterns and colors on your placemats and napkins. Indoors or outdoors, melamine is a multifunctional material -great for entertaining friends and family, especially with kids. Finish the setup with fresh flowers or plants from your garden for that finishing touch that will pop against your plates. When it comes to decorating outdoors, the more color – the better!

Tabletop by Sabrina Soto

Q: What’s your favorite outdoor color palette right now?
A: Right now, I’m loving tangerine, citron, magenta and chartreuse! In terms of patterns, Ikat and Moroccan prints make for great patterned accessories this season.

Q: How do you go about seating large crowds outside?
A: First, when you’re purchasing furniture, pick multifunctional pieces. A storage ottoman is a great place to start.  It can do double duty as a kid’s table or provide extra seating for guests. Large comfy floor cushions also come in handy when you have tons of guests. Second, opt for pieces that you can mix and match. I’m really into furniture made of natural materials. Right now, recycled wicker is especially on-trend. It’s more durable for outdoor use and you can pull pieces from your seating area over to your patio table and it will create a collected look.

Q: For evening lighting, what are your go-to tricks?
A: I like to string lights around the patio to create a magical setting. Lanterns are another great mood-setting option. A fire pit is also a great addition to any outdoor space, it creates the perfect focal point for friends and family to gather around on summer nights!

Q: Any expert tips on how to keep the bugs away, stylishly?
A: Pest repellent candles are effective, but can be an eye sore on your table. I like to place citronella candles in decorative lanterns. The stylish lantern provides a nice glow, drawing pests towards the light and away from you! Or, if you have a gazebo on your patio you can drape it with mosquito netting. Target has some great options. With some strung lights and Ikat-patterned throw pillows, it will look like a Moroccan oasis.

Sabrina's Summer Picks, all available at Target.