Summer has finally arrived and party time is in full swing. Make your summer parties more enjoyable for everyone with comfy seating, ambient lighting, and more.
Throwing an outdoor party that’s fun, festive, and filled with food, drink, and conversation requires a little prep and planning.
Whether you’re having family over for an impromptu patio day or are prepping for a giant Fourth of July bash for the entire neighborhood, these tips are designed to help make your life easier.
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Craft a Signature Cocktail
Rather than stock a whole bar, make one (easy) big-batch cocktail as a crowd-pleaser. You can also offer wine, beer, and some nonalcoholic options and viola….your outdoor party bar is done.
One of our favorites is the classic Pimm’s Cup or a Bourbon Slushy. You can find the recipes for these and other drinks on my Pinterest board.
Create a Mobile Drinks Station
Stock a bar cart with essentials: glasses, ice, a cocktail shaker, and swizzle sticks. Simply wheel it back to the kitchen if supplies run low, then slide it back outside to keep things flowing.
Keep the Menu Simple
Serve seasonal classics for a backyard party: Salads, fresh fruit, and cold drinks will satisfy the crowd, and you won’t have to stand at a hot stove for hours. Alternatively, fire up the grill, then you hang out with your guests as you prepare the food, so you won’t feel isolated in the kitchen. Plus…someone will always offer to help!
Opt for Finger Foods
Offer a menu that focuses on foods that can be eaten without utensils Think hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob, fresh veggies or charcuterie boards. For dessert, offer cupcakes, cookies or brownies.
Plan on a Potluck
Potluck is a great option for your party—especially if you’re planning for a large crowd. Decide what you want to provide (main dishes and drinks are common), and let your guests fill in the blanks with some snacks, sides, and desserts. This way…everyone gets to participate and show off their culinary skills.
Make Your Meal DIY
You supply the ingredients and let your guests create the feast. If you have an outdoor pizza oven, all you need is pre-made pizza dough and sauce, shredded cheeses, and an array of toppings to let everyone create a masterpiece. Or do a fun DIY bar…..make your own tacos, an over-the-top salad bar, baked potato bar, chili bar…be creative and let everyone have fun! Ice cream and sundae toppings can take care of dessert.
Keep Cold Foods Cold
To keep perishable dishes chilled, fill a large bowl with ice and sprinkle it with kosher salt. Place the dish on top, and it will stay colder for longer. Just be sure to keep an eye on these dishes and replace the dip and ice bath as needed. If using a cooler for drinks, these freezer packs from Amazon work great.
Upcycle Your Decor
Reuse cans, bottles, and jars to hold utensils or straws…it’s fun to cover them in cloth or paper that matches the theme of your party. Use mason jars as glasses. (Bonus: You can simply recycle your party goods at the end of the night.)
Do you have empty liquor bottles that you hate to throw away? Add lights or string lights to them and place them on table and the buffet! Click on the pictures for purchase information.
Choose Unfussy Decorations
Floating peonies and gardenias make a pretty centerpiece. Just pour water into a large serving platter and trim the stems off of each flower—no floral design skills necessary! Recycle glass jars or wrap cans in themed paper or fabric as centerpieces filled with fresh flowers or even put napkins and utensils in them.
Let Someone Else Be Your DJ
Looking for the perfect music for your party? Rather than spending the time to find and download it, look for options on music streaming services. It is easy to find a selection of party playlists, whether you’re looking for a relaxed vibe, throwback songs, or a full-on dance party. Amazon Prime has a great music service.
Focus on Comfy Seating
Thick, comfortable chair cushions will encourage guests to linger at the table. If you don’t already have some, consider investing in replacement cushions in a weatherproof material. Patio heaters can also help create a comfortable outdoor environment if temperatures dip at night. If you don’t have enough tables and chairs, you can always rent them rather than purchasing.
Get Creative With Disposables
Use brown craft paper across a table for a casually finished look and super-easy clean-up. Set out crayons or markers and let your guests decorate the table! I have also used themed fabric that I purchased at the fabric store…easy to wash and save for another party and cheaper than buying tablecloths. Disposable dinnerware will save with clean up too!
Define Your Outdoor Space
An umbrella not only has the obvious task of providing shade, but it also helps define your outdoor space. If you have a yard that gets full sun, consider setting up multiple patio umbrellas and mini-seating areas around the backyard or deck. These shaded retreats will also encourage mingling at a larger party.
Keep Bugs Away
Circle your party area with citronella candles light when the sun starts to set. The scent will help keep bugs at bay. Also, consider setting out a bottle (or two) of bug spray on the perimeter of the party for guests to use.
Set the Mood
Paper lanterns hung from tree limbs are charmingly festive (use dark extension cords that will blend in). White Christmas lights or market lights also provide a magical twinkle effect. Use inexpensive tea lights set in clean glass jam jars to add ambience to your table settings.
Gather ’Round the Fire
Do you love the look and ambience of an open flame? A fire pit will add a cozy atmosphere to your party and is something you will use often. Be considerate of your neighbors…wood burning fire pits create a lot of smoke and ash. If you live close to other people, a gas fire pit might be a better option.
If you don’t have the room for a large fire pit, there are tabletop options. These look great on an patio coffeectable.
Final Thoughts
A summer party is a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather and spend time with family and friends. I hope these tips help you prepare for your next gathering and help you have an easy and stress free party. Please share any tips you have!
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