MDW prep starts now ☀️

Hiii happy Friday!

Last weekend was SO busy, we were running around everywhere. But I got to celebrate my first Mother's Day! Shane gave me the cutest Little Words Project bracelet. You can make customs in their store or online, but they have a huge selection of premade ones too and they make great gifts! I gave my mom one last year.

This weekend we have no plans (my favorite!) so we are planting flowers!! I'm so excited, although I don't have the greenest thumb so fingers crossed I can get them to thrive! I went with a purple theme this year. I'll show you pictures next week 🙂

Memorial Day weekend is officially next weekend, which means summer hosting season is HERE. So I rounded up some of my favorite hosting finds, plus a few fish recipes from some foodie friends because I’ve fully entered my seafood + patio dinner era 🦞🍋

✨ Summer Hosting Essentials

Outside Table - I was originally eyeing outdoor tables from West Elm and Pottery Barn, but Shane asked if they were waterproof — thank goodness he did, because they weren’t! I found this waterproof table and chair set that looks like wood but is made from durable, weather-resistant material. It’s perfect for my uncovered patio where things often get rained on. I chose chairs with armrests at the ends and simpler ones without arms along the sides for a comfy, laid-back vibe.
Table Fly Spinner – Okay these are low key genius. They keep flies away from your food without sprays, smells, or anything gross looking on the table.
Mosquito Repeller - I genuinely refuse to sit outside without this because mosquitoes LOVE me. It creates a scent-free protection zone so you can actually enjoy being outside without getting eaten alive.
Serving Trays - These are the kind of serving platters that make everything look more impressive with zero extra effort. I’d use them for burgers off the grill, appetizers, fruit, honestly anything.
Solar Lantern - These solar lanterns are an instant vibe. Plus, they're solar powered, so you can set them up and forget about them aka no annoying cords!
Outdoor Speaker - A good speaker instantly makes any summer hang feel more fun. This one is waterproof, portable, has amazing sound, and the battery lasts forever.
Rattan Flatware Caddy - One of those things that instantly makes hosting feel more put together. Perfect for flatware, napkins, straws, condiments… all the random things people keep asking where you put 😂
60oz Glass Serving Pitcher - Perfect for margaritas, orange crushes (Maryland friends 🤝), Aperol spritzes, sangria… honestly anything that feels summery.
Beverage Tub - It's not a summer party without ice cold drinks! If your summer hosting style leans towards rattan, this one’s for you. But if you’re all about that sleek silver look, I've got you covered there too!
5-Wick Candle - These have quickly become my new favorite candles! With 5 wicks, the scent lasts forever and fills the whole room. Plus, they’re super chic and only $30!!!
Pasta Bowls - These look sooo similar to the expensive Anthropologie ones but for way less $$$. Plus, their dishwasher safe which is VERY important after hosting.