Make It Mediterranean! Inspiration for a Summer Birthday Dinner

You may not be able to fly off to some sun-kissed isle in the Aegean Sea. But you can certainly channel that magical mood for a special summer celebration, like a Mediterranean-inspired birthday dinner! In fact, we are so excited about this theme that we found these fabulous decorating ideas, table setting details, and even recipes to share with you. And we love how they all tie together beautifully!

It starts with the striking blue and white hues and intricate patterns of Mediterranean tilework. Then, zesty pops of lemon yellow and actual lemons, too. And you’ve got an irresistibly summery scene that’s sure to make this birthday gathering like being in Greece, Spain, or Italy! (*this post contains affiliate links)

Blue & White Plus Lemons from Decor to Dessert

Talk about a party scene that just makes you beam! Not only because it’s so pretty and inviting. But also because all these decorating and tableware elements are so readily available—and surprisingly affordable. Happy dinner planning!

Invitations – These festive Mediterranean and lemons fill-in card invitations we found on Amazon certainly set the mood for all the fun and food that’s in store. They come in a set of 25 with envelopes.

Tablescape styling – The focal point of your gathering will, of course, be the Mediterranean-style tablescape. So for some fabulous inspiration, do visit this post from Beijos Events that features the oh-so-summery Limone Collection of dinnerware from Sur La Table—plus their own styling touches.

Mediterranean Lemon Butter Chicken – Chicken breast fillets go coastal in this quick and easy recipe from Rock Recipes—featuring a buttery sauce, flavored with feta cheese, sun-dried olives, tangy lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Serve over pasta or rice.

Lemon Buttermilk Cake – We love how the title of this recipe post from The Cafe Sucre Farine describes this cake as “ridiculously easy.” And it looks absolutely lovely, too, trimmed with edible blue flowers. A triple-treat with lemon in the batter, a light lemon glaze, and a creamy lemon buttermilk topping!

Zesty Lemon Sorbet – Just the treat for a summer celebration is this all-natural frozen lemon sorbet from Haagen-Dazs. It’s non-dairy and so light and refreshing, combining tartness and sweetness in every spoonful! Available via Amazon.

Blue glassware – Capturing the sparkling blue of the Mediterranean waters, these beaded DOF cobalt glasses from Macy’s are certainly party-pretty. Get a couple of sets of 6 to display on the drinks bar or to dress up your table settings.