The day I finished With Love, Meghan on Netflix, I thought: “I want to host like that.” There’s something magical about the way Meghan Markle (now Meghan Sussex) brings warmth and ease to entertaining—it’s gracious, grounded and just the right amount of elevated. She makes guests feel seen, spoiled and totally at home.
With the Fourth of July and golden-hour dinners just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to embrace that energy and host something special. But what really makes people feel comfortable in your space? Before you set the menu, ask: What small touch would make someone feel thought of? That’s where the magic begins.
Here are a few easy, memorable ways to set the tone—before the first bite is even taken. Paired with the following fresh, summer-ready recipes, these tips will help you throw a gathering that’s just as chill as it is charming.
Thoughtful Touches – On scorching days, set out chilled eucalyptus towels, a tray of sunscreen and bug spray, or handwritten drink tags so no one loses their cup. It’s like a resort, only better—because it’s yours.
DIY Rose Water – Cool down with a luxe (but easy!) spritz: Simmer 2 cups of chemical-free garden rose petals with 4 cups of water. Place an empty bowl inside the pot and cover it with an upside-down lid topped with 2 cups of ice. The condensation collects into fresh rose water—bottle and refrigerate up to a year.
The Visual Element – Even store-bought lemonade looks luxe in a glass pitcher with floating lemon wheels. Add sprigs of rosemary, colorful linens, or vintage glassware to set a sunny, styled tone.
No Shame in the Thrift Game – LeAnn scored vintage blue goblets and glass bottles secondhand—a reminder that a stylish spread doesn’t need a big budget. It just takes heart (and maybe a good flea market find).
Honey Citrus Melon Salad
A refreshing and lightly sweet salad bursting with summer flavors.
Ingredients:
2 small cantaloupes
1 small honeydew
1 tbsp lime zest and juice of a lime
3 tbsp honey
1 tbsp fresh mint
Instructions:
Use a melon baller to scoop out rounds of melon and place them in a large bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together a local honey, lime juice and zest.
Drizzle over the melon and gently toss.
Garnish with fresh mint and serve chilled.
Tip: Swap in watermelon for variety or basil instead of mint for a twist!
Make-Ahead Italian Pressed Sandwiches
Impressive, tasty and perfect for pool parties, picnics and tailgates.
Ingredients:
1 Ciabatta baguette, cut in half horizontally
3 tbsp butter
3 roasted red peppers, sliced
3 cups arugula or mixed greens
1 ball of fresh mozzarella, sliced thin
10 oz assorted Italian deli meats (soppressata, salami, mortadella)
Olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper
Instructions:
Roast and blacken peppers. Let them steam in a bag, then peel and slice.
Butter the ciabatta to prevent sogginess and sprinkle it with salt and pepper.
Layer the meats, roasted peppers, mozzarella and greens.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and press with a heavy skillet in the fridge for 6 hours or overnight. Slice and serve chilled.
Tip: Add pesto or olive tapenade for an extra burst of flavor!
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Elevating Store-Bought Cookies
Your favorite cookies, leveled up into sweet, shareable treats.
Ingredients:
12 store-bought cookies
1 pint vanilla ice cream (or any flavor!)
Mini chocolate chips, sprinkles or chopped nuts
Instructions:
Place a scoop of ice cream between two cookies and press gently.
Roll edges in chocolate chips, sprinkles, or nuts.
Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze until serving.
Tip: Experiment with different cookie and ice cream combinations for variety!
Creative Ways to Keep Cool
Race to Melt – Freeze small toys or coins inside large ice cubes and let kids (or fun adults) race to melt them. For a twist: last cube standing wins!
Sponge Splash Battle – Cut sponges into strips, soak them and toss for a soft, reusable splash fight. Way less mess than water balloons and just as satisfying.
Sprinkler Obstacle Course – Set up a backyard course with hula hoops, pool noodles and sprinklers for a chaotic, cooling good time.
Hosting doesn’t have to be perfect to be unforgettable. With fresh flavors, thoughtful details and a little creativity, you can serve up a summer gathering that feels effortless and full of heart.
So go on—light the citronella, fill the cooler, cue the playlist, and bring your people together.
For more summer hosting inspo, follow LeAnne at @silvertoothhome and Lauren at @lauren_lane_culinarian.
Good food, great company and a splash of sunshine—what more could you need?