Outdoor parties are one of the best parts of summer. The vibe is relaxed and the focus is on enjoying the nice weather while creating fun memories with friends and family. Read our 5 tips for getting your summer soiree just right, and let us know, what are your tricks for a successful party?
KEEP THE BUGS AT BAY
In the Midwest, outdoor entertaining can be difficult to enjoy with the amount of mosquitoes that linger outside. Adding lanterns with citronella candles add ambiance while deterring bugs. Arm your backyard with bug deterring plants. Planting garlic, basil and peppermint in your garden bed and strategically placing potted plants of lavender, lemon balm, and marigolds around seating areas will do double duty adding color to your patio while keeping your guests safe from bug bites! Also having plenty of insect repellent on hand is a must!
KEEP FOOD FRESH
On hot summer days it is essential to keep food fresh for your guests. If your kitchen is close to the back door, set up a buffet inside on the island. If not, set up the food table near the door to keep temperatures stable and remember to periodically replenish ice. Room temperature snacks are also great to have around seating areas.
AVOID OVERCROWDING
Planning separate stations for food, drinks and activities combats potential jams and helps maintain a nice flow. Also, creating various seating areas allow guests to easily move around and engage in smaller, more intimate conversations.
CREATE AMBIANCE
String cafe lights around your patio or along your fence to add instant charm to your backyard. Position a seating area around a fire pit and roast s’mores. Don’t forget the tunes! For those who do not have outdoor speakers, have a Bluetooth speaker ready with your perfectly curated playlist. When decorating your outdoor space, treat it like a room. Adding indoor elements like a rug, pillows, throws and a mirror will create a cozy and inviting place for your guests.
PLAN FOR GAMES AND PREP THE POOL
Having activities ready creates an enjoyable atmosphere. Whether it’s a round of cards or tournament of bags or washers, games always ensure that guests are having a great time. If you have a pool, make sure to keep extra towels, sunblock, and floats for guests.
I like that you have mentioned avoid overcrowding. This is something I definitely have to improve on when having a party in a confined space. I just want everyone to be able to join. But as you have hinted at, this just ruins it for everyone.
Yes, it’s definitely important to keep a good flow at your gatherings. Thanks for reading, Brian!