The Texas sun has already begun to kiss our cheeks after even a short 10-minute stint outside. Being outdoors can be a blast, but so is the cool air when you’re indoors. The Entertaining Season will begin soon, and your kitchen will be an inevitable popular hangout area. Bring the warmth of the sun inside (without all the heat!) by freshening up your kitchen with some bright and fun decor.

Easy Peasy, Lemon Squeezy: Lemons will always be a classic icon of spring and summer, with homemade lemonade stands popping up around every corner. Brighten up your kitchen with something central, like this tablecloth from Williams Sonoma. Splashes of yellow are sure to bring the tart, but sweet taste to your mouth and set the vibe. 

Seasonal Scents: A rosemary-scented candle is sure to remind you of wooden swings and tall trees, while a berry-scented candle will bring back memories of Grandma’s homemade pie. If you’re really longing for memories of seasons past, try the “Summer Camp” candle by Homesick, made with notes of sunscreen, jasmine, grass, and limes. Get the kitchen conversation going with shared memories of the good times.

“The Earth Laughs in Flowers”: That’s what Ralph Waldo Emerson said anyway, and we tend to agree. What’s a Texas kitchen centerpiece if it doesn’t have native flowers in it, anyway? Sunflowers are readily available at the farmer’s market or supermarket in town, and they add a simple, but fun pop of yellow color to the room. Even simple white daisies are friendly and inviting, while the tall stalks and purple flowers of wild Delphinium create height and dimension. 

Bring on the Springtime Snacks: It’s time for ripened fruit and fresh berries, and we needed it after that cold winter spell. Texas Springtime comes early, and that’s a good thing when it comes to snacks in the kitchen. Have a few seasonal treats on hand, including fresh ingredients grown right here in the Lone Star State. Grab some tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro, and make a tasty salsa, perfect for dipping tortilla chips in. While you’re at it, whip up some avocados and lime juice for fresh guacamole, and cut up some juicy fruit for munching. Fresh ingredients as home decor are always in style. 

Bring In the Bar Cart: We’re over wintery milk-based cocktails, and on to the sweet, tart, citrusy vibe of warm weather beverage that cool us off while poolside. Bring in some fresh mint and good rum for the mojitos, or some stellar gin and fresh limes for some gimlet fun. You can never go wrong with the classic Margarita, the perfect mix of salty & tart. Steering clear of alcohol? Get the cart ready for some mock-tails, with lemonade, sparkling beverages, and fresh herbs to “spike” the punch an alternative way. Feeling lazy? Buy the booze already mixed, like Ciroc’s Summer Colada Vodka, and enjoy chilled.