"A change in season always inspires me to head to Pinterest in search of the freshest trends and dreamiest aesthetics to pin to my mood boards. This summer being no different, I’ve found myself pinning image after image of blissful garden parties, homemade summer treats, DIY crafts, and dreamy coastal scenes. Basically, I want to model my summer after the internet’s ultimate DIY queen: Martha Stewart. With Pinterest searches for “Martha Stewart aesthetic” up nearly 3000 percent this summer, the internet is flocking to Martha’s lifestyle blueprint for curated comfort and simple elegance. But the best part is, you don’t need a farm in Bedford or a degree in tablescaping to live like Martha this summer.
Summer is officially here, and a hot new bombshell of a drink has entered our office: Espresso Lemonade.
At its core, a Martha Stewart summer is more than just making life look exquisite and darling. It’s eating outside just because you can, embracing new experiences that come your way, and finding joy in making things by hand. Wherever you live, there are so many fun ways to channel Martha Stewart this summer. Read on for 11 activities to try for a Martha-themed summer.
1. Preserve seasonal produce
Preserving seasonal produce is the kind of wholesome, hands-on activity that’s equal parts nostalgic and practical. Turn surplus cucumbers into pickles or ripe summer fruit into tasty jams you can gift, serve, or admire in your pantry all summer long. We all know Martha would absolutely label each jar with perfect handwriting and a bow, but no pressure to get overly fancy if you don’t want to. Simply pour your creation into a mason jar, write what’s inside on the lid, and call it done!
2. Arrange a floral centerpiece
A Martha Stewart summer is all about elevating the everyday, and what better way to do that than with a gorgeous floral arrangement on your table? You can do a lot with a few bunches of flowers from Trader Joe’s, or take it one step further with flowers from your own yard. No need to break the bank with expensive vases either—simply grab whatever inspires you. Whether that means using a thrifted vase, a large mason jar, or even a decorative bowl, it’s just about playing with what you have and how you can get creative with it.
3. Bake a summer treat
Baking is a quintessential way to channel Martha Stewart’s homemaking prowess. Whether you pick up the ingredients at the farmers market or your usual grocery store, there are so many seasonal fruits to choose from in the summer. Strawberries, peaches, cherries, blueberries, and lemons all hit their peak in the summer and are perfect for baking into pies, tarts, or bars. Pick out the freshest carton of your favorite fruit and find a simple recipe that celebrates those bright, summery flavors.
4. Host a garden-to-table brunch
Hosting a Martha-style brunch involves more than just bacon, eggs, and toast. To elevate the whole event, base your menu around fresh, seasonal ingredients that could’ve come from your garden (even if you bought them at the grocery store). Think blueberry coffee cake, fresh-squeezed juices, and biscuits served with homemade jam. Then set the scene with vintage plates, handwritten place cards, and a soothing playlist. It’s a simple and grounded approach to hosting, but full of all the thoughtful touches Martha would make at her table.
5. Make an outdoor reading nook
All it takes is a comfy chair, a few well-placed cushions, and a side table for a cool iced beverage. Just like that, a shady spot in your backyard or on your balcony becomes a whimsical escape, straight out of the Martha Stewart playbook. It’s the perfect way to romanticize your lounging this summer. Grab that new book you’ve been wanting to dive into and settle in for a slow summer afternoon.
6. Host a picnic with friends
A picnic may sound like a typical summer activity in theory, but with a few Martha-coded touches, you’re not just eating outside—you’re creating a moment. Whether it’s in the backyard or at the park, a Martha-style picnic is all about preparation. Lean into photogenic touches like a gingham blanket, parchment paper-wrapped sandwiches, homemade dessert bars, and a chilled bottle of rosé to transform your picnic into a thoughtfully pulled-together event.
7. Paint a tote bag
A canvas tote is the carry-all bag you’ll want to bring with you everywhere this summer, and customizing one with paint is a deceptively simple DIY activity that hits all the Martha chords. It turns the everyday into something elevated, with room for a personal twist. All you need is a canvas bag (I love repurposing my Trader Joe’s totes), fabric paint, and a few brushes. Whether you’re free-handing florals or stenciling on a design, this slow-weekend activity is great when you’re wanting to light that creative spark or looking for something fun to do at girls’ night.
8. Plant an herb garden
Take advantage of the summer sun with a little gardening project. You don’t even need a whole garden plot to get started—a sunny spot on a windowsill or balcony works, too. Fill a few terracotta pots with basil, thyme, mint, or oregano, and watch them grow throughout the season. I love this summer activity because it’s multi-purposeful as instant decor and a delicious way to upgrade your cooking, all in one go.
9. Craft your own signature summer cocktail or mocktail
Channel your inner mixologist by putting your own spin on the classic summer drink menu. Just imagine: a blueberry lemon drop on a linen-draped table, a lavender lemonade to sip at golden hour, or a white peach sangria served in a vintage punch bowl. Getting the recipe just right might take some trial and error, but it’s exactly the kind of summer activity we know Martha would “cheers” to.
10. Have a backyard movie night
This kind of setup captures the essence of Martha Stewart best: inventive, thoughtful, but totally achievable. All you need to host a backyard movie night is a projector (which you can purchase inexpensively on Amazon), a flat surface to project onto, some string lights, and a few comfy throws. To complete the vibe, pop some popcorn and set out a spread of snacks. It’s infinitely more fun than sitting inside in front of the TV.
11. Make hand-stamped cocktail napkins
Stamping your own cocktail napkins is a simple, satisfying summer project that channels the best of Martha without feeling too over-the-top or extreme. It’s easy and fun and instantly makes your table feel all the more special for your guests. Whether you’re hosting friends or just trying to spruce up a weeknight happy hour at home, there is no stress about being perfect here. Go classic with a few stitched initials or playful with rubber bands and pastel dyes in the backyard.
Madigan Will, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Madigan writes and edits content for every topic under the digital media sun. As the oldest of four siblings, she enjoys utilizing her big sister persona to connect and inspire readers—helping them discover new ways to maximize their everyday.