One of my favourite ways to bring joy and a sense of seasonality to the table is by styling it with what’s fresh, local, and naturally beautiful, all while keeping sustainability in mind. In summer, tomatoes are the perfect option.
Think sweet cherry tomatoes, deeply hued heirlooms, sunny yellow pears, dusky purples, and candy-striped varieties, all bursting with colour and looking irresistibly good enough to eat.
Tomatoes might not be the first thing that comes to mind when styling your table, but trust me: once you try it, you’ll be hooked. They’re vibrant, organic, and full of character. And they don’t have to be perfect, in fact, the more unusual and “wonky” the shape, the better. That’s exactly what makes them so charming.
Whether you’re hosting a long, lazy al fresco lunch or a simple midweek supper, here’s why and how to style your table using tomatoes as your centrepiece, your décor, even your place settings.
Why Style with Tomatoes?
Seasonal beauty
Tomatoes are at their peak in the summer. Styling with them celebrates their natural abundance and effortless charm.
Sustainable and edible
Skip the plastic or flowers that wilt in a day, tomatoes are zero waste and delicious!
A conversation starter
Guests will love the colours, creativity, and the thoughtful touch of styling from the heart.
Affordable elegance
Even a small selection of market-fresh tomatoes can make your table sing.
How to Create a Tomato Tablescape
Start with a base
Lay a linen tablecloth like our Lemon Grove Tablecloth (link) or style directly on a natural wooden surface for a rustic feel.
Gather your tomatoes
Choose a mix of sizes, colours, and shapes: Heirloom tomatoes in rich reds, golds, and purples. Cherry and grape tomatoes on the vine. Green zebras, golden plums, and candy-striped varieties for contrast. Source them from your local farmers’ market or your own garden.
Build your centrepiece
Create a natural runner with vine leaves, rosemary branches, or fresh basil. Gently nestle the tomatoes in, letting them tumble loosely, as if just picked. Add height and texture by placing a few tomato vines in jam jars or bud vases. Tuck in sprigs of thyme, oregano, or mint for a touch of fragrance.
Add candlelight
Scatter tea lights or slender dining candles in clear glass holders among the tomatoes. As the sun sets, the warm glow reflecting off their skins creates a magical, golden atmosphere.
Make tomato place settings
Choose smaller and firmer tomatoes like plum or cherry-sized and place one on each plate. Tie a little twine around the stem with a name tag for each guest. Simple, thoughtful, and charming.
