Summer Tips For Outdoor Entertaining
Tips on creating a sophisticated outdoor space for summer entertaining.
Summer is the perfect time for outdoor entertaining. Not long ago outdoor entertaining meant a picnic basket in the park or throwing burgers on the grill. However, today there is a growing trend in outdoor kitchens and rooms with all the comfort of interior spaces. The secret to outdoor entertaining is bringing your favorite indoor decor items outdoors.
Top 5 Tips For Outdoor Entertaining
1. Lay out a basic space for entertaining. Planning a space before entertaining is key for outdoor entertainment. First, you will need to decide if guests will be seated at a table or will be standing or sitting in a lawn chair. Pull out some old rugs and place them where the guests will be. This will bring a more cozy indoor feel to the atmosphere. Also, place old cushions in the shade. Plan a main buffet table. The buffet table should include main entrees, salads, side dishes, and condiments. Place all iced drinks in a water proof container which can range from a copper tub, cooler, wheel barrel, or Terra Cotta Pots.
2. Dress the tables. Dress the table up by using cloth napkins for dining and place paper napkins throughout. Arrange silverware in a "inviting" container, in which the guest can take one. This can include planters, or cachepots. To add color to the table use colorful dining plates and silverware.
Use simple center pieces such as small containers of Gerbera Daisies, or impatiens, along with greenery. You can also try using fruit and vegetables as center pieces.
3. Use food that is suitable for outdoors. Try to keep the buffet table in a shaded area, because direct sunlight will cause fresh food to wilt and dairy products to curdle. Try to stay away from foods that contain a lot of oil or gelatin, as they do not hold up well in the heat. A good choice for a buffet fare is dishes that serve well at room temperature, such as vinegar based salads, grilled kebabs, beans and noodle dishes.
4. Light up the evening. If your entertainment is in the evening, add some romance with lighting. Use clear strands of light on trees, shrubs, and fences. Candles are always a good source for outdoor lighting as they can be placed as grouping on tabletops, in small jars or in holders. Another thing to consider is placing hurricane lanterns. They will stay lit when it becomes breezy and can be used as a center piece.
5. Have children feel welcome. Plan creative ways to keep children entertained. A kids table can be a great idea, cover it with crayons and white paper.
If you plan ahead and keep it simple, you will enjoy your summer gatherings just as much as your guests will.
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