DeJuan Stroud’s magnificent design at last year’s Summer Party. (Photo: Lisa Tamburini)

From stunning tablescapes to thoughtfully curated details, the Southampton Hospital Foundation’s Summer Party is known for creating an atmosphere that is as memorable as it is meaningful.

Bringing this year’s vision to life is renowned event designer DeJuan Stroud, whose work has graced some of the country’s most celebrated gatherings and prestigious venues such as Lincoln Center. Ahead of the 68th Annual Summer Party on Saturday, August 1, DeJuan shared his favorite entertaining tips, the trends he’s loving this season, and a glimpse into the inspiration behind this year’s sophisticated design.

1. What makes a summer gathering feel memorable, even when it’s simple?

DS: If a gathering is during the day, great music is always an easy way to give a vibe and make the event memorable. My go-to source is Spotify. I like how I can search with the most specific description (e.g. Sunday brunch for a Gen Z crowd) and get a sensational playlist. If the gathering is in the evening, then concentrate on lighting. Incorporating loads of lanterns, hurricanes, luminaries, strands and strands of bistro lights, and votive candles will insure a visual impact that your guests will remember.

2. What are your go-to elements for creating an elegant summer table?

DS: If a daytime meal, then style your table with fruits or vegetables. What’s prettier than a big bowl of lemons or a small hamper of blackberries studded with tiny white roses? For an evening table setting, simplify the palette in terms of napkins, china, glassware and make sure to include a variety of candles – taper candles, pillar candles, votive candles – as many as your table can accommodate.

3. What floral styles or color palettes are you loving this summer?

DS: Floral styles I prefer are arrangements that look easy and not studied and stiff. For daytime I love a riot of color – kind of a garden at summer’s height. For the evening, softer toned flowers always look prettier – I can’t stand when the lights are low and dark colored flowers look like black holes on the table.

4. What’s one entertaining mistake people overthink?

DS: Providing guests with too many options for drinks and an overcomplicated menu.

5. Can you give us a sneak peek into the inspiration behind this year’s Summer Party design?

DS: The Fall Fashion Gala for New York City Ballet gala which included elegant tones of cream, taupe, matte gold and rich brown.

A limited number of tickets and tables remain for the 68th Annual Summer Party. Reserve your place at this unforgettable evening by purchasing your tickets or table here.