The best summers are the ones you're always ready for. There's a particular ease that comes from a home set to gather at a moment's notice, when a friend stops by unannounced, when someone suggests dinner on the porch, when a picnic or a table on the beach feels like the most natural thing in the world. It's less about grand plans than the small comforts kept close at hand: a stack of tablecloths to rotate, good plates within reach, a basket packed and waiting by the door. So we've put together a checklist to keep your home set for hosting all season long.

The Bucket List: Summer Hosting

1. Have a good supply of kitchen table table clothes to rotate including oil cloths, like this one, this one, or this one.

2. Indulge in Carolina Irving and Daughters dinner plates.

3. Mix in wicker and raffia baskets for kitchen storage and organization.

4. Have picnic supplies ready to roll on short notice (like canvas tote bags, beach towels, sweaters, rain coats, and sandwich supplies.)

5. Use wildflowers to decorate birthday cakes.

6. Check out shops that carry Jeanne van Etten (see: Apple's on Islesboro!) and don't be afraid to mix and match cups.

7. Build up your enamalware collection. Buy secondhand or from a favorite source, like this one.

8. Set a table on the beach with quality paper products (try Meri Meri or Maaterra) and easy recipes for a bonfire like "Tomatoes Margot."

9. Host Sunday lunch and indulge in afternoon nap.

10. Serve cocktails on a tray, like these, also available at Apple's.

11. Keep a signature summer drink.

12. Host a first-night dinner for friends' arrivals when their kitchens aren't unpacked yet.

13. Have breakfast in bed.

14. Collect tablecloths for your dinner table.

15. Play games after dinner, like "Never have I ever!"

16. Perfect the cocktail tray.

17. Master an easy signature supper that can be put together in 20 minutes.

18. Enjoy a picnic on an island.

19. Enjoy a picnic on your lawn.

20. Have a lobster bake21. Set a table outside.

22. Craft a dinner party playlist.

23. Enjoy and serve breakfast in bed for you or your guests!

24. Stock a costume closet for special dinner parties.