Easy Outdoor Entertaining
Image by Lucy Cuneo via One Kings Lane
While summer will soon come to a close, there’s still plenty of warm-weather evenings ahead to gather with friends and family al fresco. Outdoor entertaining doesn’t need to be fussy or formal. In fact, it shouldn’t be. Here, I am sharing a few of my favorite tips for parties that are easy, casual, beautiful and fun.
Stock the Bar Cart
For casual outdoor entertaining, I like to move a bar cart (love this one from Serena & Lily) from my home onto my patio, stocked with everything my guests might need for refreshments and cocktails. This makes refilling drinks simple, and allows guests to do so at their leisure. Having a self-serve bar takes the pressure off the host and allows you to relax and enjoy the evening.
Think Outside the Vase
A casual summer gathering gives you free rein to have fun with your centerpiece. Instead of flowers or candles, incorporate your menu into the mix as decor! I love using a cheese platter or charcuterie board as a centerpiece. Not only is it functional, it also encourages guests to socialize. Plus, it’s absolutely beautiful to look at!
Be Playful!
An easy cocktail that is always a crowd pleaser, I absolutely love these “champagne popsicles!” Use an all natural juice bar in a variety of flavors, and an everyday bottle of Cava or Prosecco. It’s a whimsical touch that will surprise and delight your guests, and is the perfect welcome or after-dinner drink on a warm summer night.
Plastic Makes Perfect
When it comes to outdoor dining, I rarely, if ever, use china. Instead, I opt for a patio-friendly, easy to clean material like melamine or even (gasp!) paper plates. Today’s iterations are not the tacky versions of years past. I love the paper plates and cutlery from Sophistiplate (shown above), but there are a number of fabulous lines available at local home and gift shops. This is another tried-and-true way to spend less time on hostess duties and more time actually enjoying your guests.
Be Giving
Whether you’re the host or the guest, having a special little something to take away at the end of the evening is always a welcomed touch. A simple favor or hostess gift that’s always a hit is a gorgeous stem or two of hydrangeas, wrapped in a beautiful tea towel. Locally, I have found that Trader Joe’s has the best (and most affordable!) selection. For tea towels and other fun goodies, I love the niche brand Honey + Hank (shown above).