The arrival of warmer weather has us planning our outdoor entertaining. Summertime is a great time to entertain outdoors. Throwing an outdoor party that's fun, festive, and filled with food, drink, and conversation is always a good idea, especially if you have the outdoor space. These four tips are all designed to help make your life easier to kick back and enjoy the summer with your family and friends.
Decor
Pick a theme for your party. Is it a picnic, memorable holiday, birthday, etc.? Use colorful disposable plates and silverware. Lay craft paper or throw-away table cloth across a table for a casually finished look―and easy cleanup. Fresh flowers are a must but don't think you have to spend a lot or go fancy. Floating peonies and gardenias make a pretty centerpiece. Circle your party area with citronella candles or incense sticks to light when the sun starts to set. Paper lanterns draped from tree limbs are charmingly festive for evening parties. You can also use string lights on the deck, the fence, and even tree branches. The small electric/ flameless candles are the safest way to light up the night.
Furniture
Make sure you have comfortable chairs with cushions and outdoor pillows. Your table should fit the number of guests or buy additional fold-up tables to put on the grass if there are a lot of guests. An umbrella will encourage mingling, as guests will congregate at the various seating areas for some shade. If you're keeping things casual, you can spread pretty blankets on the ground and let people gather picnic-style. If it is scorching, use some battery-operated fans. They are also a great way to keep bugs away.
Food
Create a simple menu that won't leave you stranded in the kitchen while your guests mingle outside. Depending on your theme and guests, will you be catering or BBQing? If you're planning to cook on the grill, do your prep work in advance. Make sure you have the proper cooking utensils and serving platters. Also, you can suggest a potluck party. Ask for volunteers and ask that party-goers get back to you with what they bring.
Activities
For adults, anything that includes adult beverages is a good idea. Make a specialty cocktail or even hire a bartender to do a mixology demonstration for your guests. You can always rely on fun drinking card games for a good laugh. Music is the backbone of a great party. Create a music playlist appropriate for the age of your guests. So the grown-ups can kick back and enjoy their drinks to keep the children busy with activities like Slip-n-Slide. Create a do-it-yourself ice cream sundae decorating bar or even invest in a festive piñata that doubles as an activity for guests for children and adults.
The Best Ideas for Outdoor Entertaining with Four Seasons
Look no further than Four Seasons Sunrooms to find the best ideas to entertain outdoors using your given space. We'll be happy to walk you through your options for creating your best summer party. Contact us at 888-270-3546 or chat with us anytime on our 24/7 live help desk for more information about our services and ideas for entertaining during the summer.
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