One thing about me: I love hosting. Bringing people together and creating a space where everyone can relax, connect and have fun is incredibly rewarding. But while planning an event is exciting, it can quickly turn into a long (and sometimes overwhelming) to-do list.
That’s why, as a detail-oriented foodie and seasoned host, I’ve put together a guide to help you make your next outdoor gathering feel effortless instead of stressful. From backyard barbecues to al fresco Italian dinners, outdoor movie nights, garden tea parties and more, our summer-inspired ideas are designed to simplify the process without sacrificing style.
Read on for tips, inspiration, and curated product recommendations to help you host with confidence and keep your event perfectly on-topic.
barbecue
Enjoy a barbecue in your backyard. First, curate your menu with simple proteins and sides you can throw on the grill. That way it won’t stray away from your guests for too long (e.g. hamburgers, hot dogs, pre-cut vegetables, corn, etc.). Then, get your grilling tools and essentials ready. I like the Williams Sonoma grill tool set for all my basic needs. Keep your favorite beverage in a cooler with ice and you’re good to go for dinner.
For a personal touch, I love the traditional barbecue gingham pattern that can be expressed on plates, tablecloths or other decorations. I grew up playing cornhole during our summer get-togethers, so cornhole is always a favorite. This is especially helpful if your guests are anxious about food!
Our Recommendations
- Williams Sonoma Walnut Grilling Tools, Set of 3
- white gingham paper plates
- igloo small cooler
- GoSports Wooden Cornhole Set
Campfire S’mores
Spending time around the fire and roasting marshmallows is one of the most exciting activities of the season. Make your family and guests feel cozy on chilly nights by gifting them fluffy blankets to crowd around the fire pit. Of course, you’ll need s’mores sticks. I like to organize a little station where I can place my s’mores ingredients (chocolate, marshmallows, graham crackers). This way your guests will know where to go in seconds and you can easily refill. Another useful tip of mine is that you don’t have to cut your evening short by bringing mosquito repellent.
Our Recommendations
- Malomi S’mores Sticks
- turn off! Family Care Mosquito Repellent
- LL Kong Plush Throw
- S’more Station
outdoor italian
As an Italian-American, my primary hosting experience is always European. This theme can be executed with high quality linen tablecloths and fluted tapered candles that light and spread across the table. Transform your space by installing solar outdoor lights on your patio, and place plates on wooden cutlery for a true Italian look. My recommendation is to add fresh herbs like rosemary to the table to really play off the theme. Possible menu items include a Negroni or Aperol spritz, Caprese salad, gnocchi, a protein (such as shrimp, branzino, or steak), and gelato or tiramisu for dessert.
Our Recommendations
- Anthropologie Flute Taper Candle
- european linen tablecloth
- solar outdoor lighting
- Tondo Acacia Oval Platter
Poolside Brunch
A poolside brunch is super easy to put together since you already have a great backdrop. All you need is shade (umbrellas) for your guests, comfortable seating, and appropriate serving elements. The mimosa has to be the best menu item already prepared in a champagne flute that includes a pitcher for juice blends and a coffee maker. Fresh fruit is usually picked upon arrival, so prepare pre-portioned serving plates.
Our Recommendations
- champagne flute
- terrace umbrella
- 5-section serving platter set
outdoor movie night
If you have a neutral wall or part of your home that’s perfect for a projector, host an outdoor movie night. Stream from your laptop while your guests sit in comfortable bean bag chairs or pillowed lawn chairs. We’ll also provide blankets if it gets cold overnight. Food essentials include popcorn (you can even grab a cute red and white popcorn container), candy, and soft drinks. If your backyard is poorly lit, it may be wise to purchase walkway lighting to allow people to move freely throughout the movie.
Our Recommendations
- home theater movie projector
- outdoor bean bag chair
- Skinny Pop Popcorn
- Eddie Bauer 2-pack pillow
garden tea party
Looking for an elegant celebration? Invest in a garden tea party for your closest friends. Of course, you’ll need to prepare some nice teacups and a nice teapot to serve your guests. The tiered stand has finger foods (such as cucumber sandwiches and scones) spread out across the table for people to choose from. Buy a variety of tea bags for your customers to choose from depending on their preferences. For a more aesthetic event, you may want to implement a more formal dress code. Another pro tip: tie everything together by making your event invitations similar to the colors of your tables.
Our Recommendations
- Stoneware Tiered Stand
- floral tea kettle
- Williams Sonoma Tea Bag Collection
- Pottery Barn LoveShackFancy Rose Porcelain Teacup
The post The Ultimate Guide to Easy Summer Hosting first appeared on RetailMeNot’s The Real Deal.
