How to Decorate Your Midsummer Table: Tips from an IKEA Expert
Darius Rimkus, head of the Interior Design department at IKEA, shares practical advice for decorating a Midsummer table, emphasizing naturalness, simplicity, and personal traditions.
As Midsummer approaches, nature is in full bloom, and the festive atmosphere can be brought indoors. Regardless of experience, table setting is one of the easiest ways to create a holiday mood.
Table decoration based on celebration plans
According to Darius Rimkus, head of Interior Design at IKEA, one must first consider how the evening will be spent. If the table is the central gathering spot, low and compact decorations are recommended to avoid hindering conversation. If the table is only for the meal and the rest of the time is spent outdoors, richer decorations and taller compositions can be chosen.
Natural materials and Midsummer herbs
The central elements include Midsummer herbs, a linen tablecloth, and Jāņu cheese. Ferns, meadow flowers, and oak branches create a strong visual impact. Herbs such as dill, mint, or chives can also be used as decorations. Wreaths are an important Midsummer symbol; they can be used on the table and their weaving can be a shared activity. Ideal materials are wood, linen, glass, and ceramics. Rimkus advises against striving for perfection – nature has no rules.
Color and detail choices
A white tablecloth creates a festive feel, while neutral tones highlight natural elements. Meadow flower or greenery compositions are recommended for the center. It is important to maintain simplicity – use no more than two or three colors and leave space for plates. A personal touch can be added with handwritten folk sayings or songs placed on each plate. A small fern branch can decorate the plate.
Light and atmosphere
Candles create a special atmosphere. Artificial candles are safer, especially with children present, and mimic the warmth of a bonfire. Lemon-scented candles help repel mosquitoes. Additional lighting such as solar-powered string lights or lanterns is useful, but they should not overpower the candlelight. Rimkus encourages reflecting on family traditions to create a unique table setting.
