Outdoor Entertaining Tips for the Perfect Summer Get-together

If you are the type who likes to throw a big to-do, consider moving your event outdoors while the summer months allow you to make the most of your backyard or patio space. Entertaining outdoors is a great way to throw an intimate and memorable event, and outdoor areas can be retrofitted to accommodate either casual or formal events.

There are two keys to throwing a fun and engaging party: focus on your guests, not the party itself, and keep it simple! Simple can be classy and elegant, while still being wallet-friendly. The importance of an event is creating an environment where people can mingle comfortably, not how much you spend on lavish decorations or food.

Here are some tips to throwing a fun, simple outdoor party.

1. Create ambiance. One easy mistake that many people make when preparing for a party (indoor or outdoor) is arranging chairs in a circle along the edge of the space. This is a party, not a middle school dance or a therapy session; promote movement by creating different areas for people to gather. For example, set the bar at the back of your space, with a few chairs for those who fancy lingering around the drinks. The snack tables should be up by the house, allowing for easy access to the kitchen. Already you have two areas where people will gravitate to and move between.

Set a few chairs in corners or pockets around your outdoor space. Maybe set a fire pit in one corner, surrounded by chairs. By scattering your outdoor furniture and seating you will get people moving around.

If you’re low on seating, set cushions down on hard services and blankets out across the lawn. Canopies and umbrellas are a great way to weatherproof your party. The only down side of an outdoor event is the chance of inclement weather. Take steps to ensure that your event goes forward as planned.

2. Keep it simple.  You don’t have to have a full buffet available for your guests, a few well-thought-out snacks and dishes will do. Likewise, you can pre-make one special cocktail in bulk to serve to your guests.

If you don’t have enough silverware for the party, don’t be above using simple supermarket or dollar store options. With some thought you can throw a classy party while keeping expenses down. 

3. Cater to your guests.  To ensure that your guests enjoy the event, it is crucial for you to be focused on them, not running the event. If it’s a special party, hire some help. A waiter or two will go a long way, allowing you to focus on mingling with guests.

Know who you’re inviting! If someone has a particular food allergy, make sure to accommodate their needs in your menu. If you know a guest has a particular like or dislike in terms of wine or appetizers, cater to them.

Be sure to keep your guests happy and hydrated by offering water and other non-alcoholic beverages. Keep them entertained and engaged by providing some games or contests. Whether it be card games, dominos, volleyball or a cooking contest, simple events like these will bring your guests together.

4. Themes. Having a theme to unify your party and guests can be a great way to really deliver a memorable event. But, keep it simple! Choose one or two elements to create a theme. If it’s Mexican, tacos and tequila cocktail, along with a few tasteful decorations, will do. Try to avoid crossing your themes. For example, a Chinese or Asian theme, and you serve fried rice (Chinese) and sushi (Japanese).

The key to throwing a really special event is to make it memorable, fun, and focused on the guests! Lately, outdoor furniture fads have been trending more and more towards comfort, and moving away from the old school, utilitarian designs. You’re party would be a perfect opportunity to jump on the bandwagon! Toss out the rusty, sun-worn patio chairs and drag some sofas outside. Bringing some indoor comfort outdoors will set your summer party apart.