Packing for a summer getaway—especially coastal road trips—can be a bit laborious. However, I always try to add in a few elevated basics to make things even more memorable. And, of course, in between outings and trips, we love hosting friends for drinks on the patio. Whatever your plans, here are some lovely finds for your summer enjoyment—from wines to buy by the case to the most beautiful citronella candles.
CRABS, SEAHORSES & ANCHORS
If you’re looking for coastal elegance, you can achieve it in one swoop with Cinder + Salt’s whimsical napkin sets. Prints include lobster, moose, anchors, dragon flies, poppies, and more. These also make a great hostess gift.
Info: cinderandsalt.com
HAVE BLANKET, WILL ADVENTURE
Summertime is a blur of beach outings, coastal getaways, and family fun. Be ready for anything—planned or spontaneous—with an outdoor blanket from Little Unicorn. This is the blanket that lives in the trunk—water-resistant, easy carrying strap, and folds down small. Info: littleunicorn.com
EASY BREEZY BEAUTY
Each summer, I spend way too much time searching for dresses that balance casual and cute—appropriate for anything from a patio party to dinner out. Trovata’s summer collection offers stunning prints and plenty of looks that go from clam shack to Champagne with ease.
Info: trovalta.com
CASE CONUNDRUM
SOLVED
If you’re entertaining this summer, you’re probably going to search for a gorgeous wine to purchase by the case. Silk & Spice wines regularly earn 90+ reviews by Wine Enthusiast, and they’re shockingly affordable.
Info: silkandspice.com
BU-BYE HIDEOUS
CITRONELLA CANDLES
Sure, a red bucket candle is quintessentially summer; no argument there. But these lovely bug-thwarting citronella candles and incense from Skeem are a welcomed upgrade.
Info: skeemshop.com
ON-THE-GO GRILLING
This little grill from GoBQ is packing big potential. It’s perfect for tailgating, a day at the beach, or hedging your grill-bets when renting an Airbnb. Plus, it’s just the right size for summertime road trips. Info: gobqgrills.com
ALL THE CRAFT,
NONE OF THE FUSS
Craft cocktail connoisseurs know the joy of a well-smoked sip. An easy-to-use smoker Nathan & Co. makes it easy to serve a signature cocktail at your summer soiree. Skip all that tubing nonsense; keep it simple and elegant instead.
Info: nathanandco.com
CHILLY MOUNTAIN
MOMENTS
If you prefer the mountains to the sea, you already know how chilly it can be at night. Whether hiking or sitting around an evening fire at a vineyard, this Timberland x Icebreaker Jacket is versatile enough for whatever you throw at it.
Info: icebreaker.com
BEACH WINE AT ITS BEST
Remember when the snow was whipping, and we were daydreaming about beach days? Well, this wooden wine table is your reminder to make the most of this warm weather. Interior designer Dan Mazzarini suggests we grab a bottle, and head to the beach for the sunset. Check his Coastal Grandmother blogpost for more.
Info: archivebydm.com
HATS OFF TO VERSATILITY
If you’ve been looking for that one, perfect hat that goes with everything – all year-long, this is the one. The Aria hat from Portland Leather Goods comes in four colors, but this cream version will make your summer looks pop.
Info: portlandleathergoods.com
SUMMER = SPRITZER SEASON
Jennifer Lopez has jumped in on the ready-to-drink cocktail enthusiasm, and I could not be happier. Delola is a spritzer riff with fresh botanicals, and perfect for hot summer days. The Paloma Rosa is especially tasty with tequila, grapefruit, and elderflower.
Info: delolalife.com
HANDCRAFTED & VACAY-APPROVED
This is the original Menorcan avarcas created according to the traditional measures. Pons Avarcas have been handcrafted by the 3rd generation of the Pons family in Menorca, since 1945. They’re extremely comfortable, easy-to-pack, and go with everything. Info: avarcausa.com