Outdoor entertaining can be so much fun! If you love to host like I do, you may be excited at the prospect of planning a menu and setting the scene. Whether you’re a regular Martha Stewart or you’re in desperate need of some help, these outdoor entertaining ideas are sure to inspire you.
Outdoor parties are a great way to enjoy your garden – and your grill or griddle. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party (my favorite) or a more casual gathering, here are some ideas to make the soirée special.
You may think paper plates and plastic utensils when you think of an outdoor party. While there’s definitely nothing wrong with that, you can elevate a sit-down dinner by using your best dishes and glassware.
I love getting inspiration from Pinterest to help me create my own tablescapes. Here are a few of my favorites that I’ve created to inspire you:
I love that my outdoor table is nestled into the herb garden on my deck. This really adds to the scene. But you can also bring the garden to your table by clipping some florals for a centerpiece.
At this table, I cut some hydrangeas from my garden for the perfect late summer look. After the party is over, I can hang these upside-down to dry out for fall.
Something I like to do to keep things easy is to select a simple dinner to make for guests. I usually pick easy dishes that I know how to make in my sleep.
Another option to keep it manageable is to host a potluck. If guests bring dishes, you can choose just one recipe to make and it will save you some work.
[Pork Skewers Glazed with Barbeque Sauce]
Having a drink station is a great way to elevate guest experience. You don’t need to stock a full bar – just pick one or two signature drinks and provide the instructions and ingredients for guests to pull them together. You can also pick up some beer or wine to give options to choose from.
I’ve noticed that my deck – where my herb garden is located – rarely has mosquitoes. If you have any of these plants, set your table near them for natural protection:
[Source: The Pioneer Woman]
Breezes can take out some of your table decor if you are not careful! Make sure things like tablecloths and napkins are adequately weighted down to keep accidents from happening!
Don’t forget to play some relaxing background music to enhance the mood! Create a playlist and grab an Alexa or a portable speaker to keep the party festive and fun.
I love setting up some basic outdoor games for extra entertainment. Think bean bag toss, croquet, or bubbles. This provides both kids and grownups alike with something to do to enjoy the night.
I have solar powered string lights and lanterns from Ikea that really help with the nighttime mood. Consider adding lighting like this if your party will continue into the night. You can also light torches or candles for additional wow factor.
Follow @Lauren_Rose_Home on Instagram for more entertaining ideas and inspiration!
Design, thrifting, and entertaining are my passion, and I share that passion with you through this blog. I also love being in the kitchen and crafting cocktails. I love Jesus and occasionally, I talk about him too. He has been so powerful in my life, and I love to bring him glory with my hobbies.
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