I've just discovered how versatile this store cupboard item is for summer hosting – Weck jars are my favorite hack for the season

Until recently, I counted on Weck jars to store two things and two things only: preserves and overnight oats. (I feel undeniably organised when I can start the day with a perfectly-prepped breakfast.)

But what I hadn’t considered was that Weck jars are destined for far more than the inside of the refrigerator; in fact, they might be my new secret weapon when it comes to summer table decor ideas.

A search on Pinterest and Instagram has surfaced all sorts of hacks for using Weck jars in different ways, from candle lanterns and bud vases to cocktail glasses and condiment containers. Even the celebs are on board – Reese Witherspoon and Gwyneth Paltrow are both fans of the jar hack. Here are some of my favorites that I'll be using all summer long.

Five ways to use Weck jars

Prepping a summer salad? Serving up cocktails? There's a Weck jar for that. The trusty glassware might be a food storage staple, but it's just as helpful when it comes to hosting.

1. Use Weck jars as cocktail glasses

If you're making summer cocktails and wondering which glass to use, put the fancy glassware aside and reach for your Weck jars – strike the perfect balance between rustic and functional.

‘I love making my drinks in jars – I started with my iced coffees and matchas because I could shake them to mix in the milk and the ice,’ says Hebe Hatton, our Head of Interiors. ‘I like a slightly taller jar for my drinks in the morning, and I’ve used a few of the shorter designs for my signature negronis this summer.’

Big enough to hold plenty of liquid, and the perfect shape to show off any eye-catching garnishes, Weck jars serve as brilliant cocktail glasses. You can also use the larger versions to shake up your ingredients – and, of course, the leak-proof lids allow you to create drinks of the uniquely portable variety. ‘I’ve used bigger Weck jars to make cocktails that I take to parties,’ says Hebe. ‘It means you can add ice and garnishes when you arrive, too.’

2. Display flowers in Weck jars

I love using an oversized or intricately-patterned vase to create a statement summer table centerpiece, but for a more pared-back alternative, or ideas for long table settings, Weck jars certainly do the trick.

‘I would always go for a selection of fairly large, round blooms to create a cut-flower table arrangement in a Weck Jar this summer,’ advises Rachel Bull, our Head of Gardens. ‘These jars have wide openings, so you need bigger focal flowers to fill the space.’

When it comes to the stems themselves, it’s all about variety. ‘I'd opt for a mixture of dahlias, small sunflowers, zinnias, black-eyed Susans, and coneflower,’ Rachel suggests. ‘I would also dot some delicate achillea and nigella stems into the mix. This will soften the look, adding a little bit of height and a more meadow-esque, just-picked feel.’

3. Switch lanterns for Weck jars

If you’re on the hunt for outdoor candle ideas to complete your summer tablescapes, Weck Jars could be the answer. Since they’re heat-resistant, they’re brilliant for holding tealights and larger candles – offering a useful alternative to large lanterns and hurricane jars, especially if you’re looking to save table space.

The key to elevating the look is maximising visual interest, so try to use jars in different shapes and sizes. I like to show mine off alongside tapered candles to vary the heights across the table.

4. Serve snacks and desserts in Weck jars

While it’s true that nothing impresses dinner guests quite like statement crockery, I’m a firm believer that an inventive or particularly smart use of tableware never goes unnoticed – and what’s more charming than serving your starters, snacks or desserts in a jar? A quick summer berry compote or chocolate mousse is my go-to sweet treat if I’m prepping something speedy for a dinner party.

Alternatively, fill a Weck jar with olives or breadsticks for pre-dinner nibbles, or offer some chocolate treats or healthy snacks for any young guests.

5. Weck jars for dressings and pickles

Whether you're mixing up dressing for a summer salad recipe or creating a homemade marinade for barbecue recipes Weck jars are the perfect solution. They won't make your refrigerator smell thanks to the airtight lids and you can literally pop them straight on the table when you're ready to serve. Why not decant other sauces such as Ketchup and mayo into them for a more elevated look?

They're also ideal for making your own pickle recipes, and can look really pretty displayed on a summer table, too, ready to serve straight onto your plate.

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There you have it: the humble Weck jar is a hosting hero. I'll be using mine to keep cool and level up my whipped lemonade.