Summer is the time to invite your friends over for a get together! Outdoor entertaining seems to be a summer staple. So what should you have on hand to make your party the best on the block? We will help you to stock up on outdoor party essentials so that you have everything on hand the next time you fire up the grill.
Start with your entertainment area. Do you have some place to sit? What about a table? You can pull together something on a budget or splurge on an outdoor patio set. Keep in mind the size of the space you have available and also where it is located. Is it covered? Or will you need a patio umbrella? Make those cookouts the best they can be by adding an outdoor dining area to your home or apartment.
Next up is decor! Have a few pieces for your table on hand including table runners, placemats, candles, lanterns, and more. Think about a theme that suits your style and pick items that all fit within that. You can actually go completely in another direction from your home’s style outdoors. This is the place to really let your personality shine! Get creative with DIY options if you are on a budget or splurge a little to make your space everything that you imagine.
You will also need serving platters, dishes, and silverware for any party that you are hosting. Bring your everyday kitchen necessities outdoors or buy inexpensive plastic versions specifically for outdoors. Either way, your guests are sure to indulge in the spread you lay out so be sure to have enough plates to handle the rush.
When serving up your food, be sure to take into account the needs of your guests. What would make you comfortable at someone else’s home? Think ahead and lay out plenty of napkins or even wet wipes for when the BBQ is really great! Make sure you have counted your guests and have plenty of plates and chairs. Have friends with food allergies? Be sure to have a meal that works for those people as well. Anything you can do to make them feel at home will put you one step ahead in the entertaining department.
[tweetthis]From homemade citronella to cookout decor, check out these #summer entertainment tips![/tweetthis]
Another way to make sure your guests are comfortable is to keep the bugs at bay. Pick up candles and sprays specifically formulated for summer pests. You can even try making your own citronella candles! There is nothing that can kill an outdoor party faster than a flock of mosquitos. Make sure your party goes well into the night by stocking up on bug repellents.
Now what are you waiting for? Spruce up your outdoor space and get ready for a summer party. Your family and friends will love what you have in store for them after you follow these outdoor summer entertaining tips. We hope you enjoy and have the best summer ever!