6 Tips For Hosting The Perfect Summer Party
Are you hoping to surprise your friends with an amazing summer party at your place? If that’s the case, some preparation is in order.
Obviously, you have to make sure that the setting is just right; you’re probably going to spend most of your time outdoors, but if the weather seems unpredictable, there should be a proper place indoors for a quick getaway that won’t disrupt the party.
Also, there’s the question of food and drinks, as well as potential themes and décor you might want to incorporate. And don’t forget about coming up with a couple of interesting party games, just in case.
1. Organize Your Yard
As mentioned, summer parties are usually held outdoors. In that respect, you want to make sure that your own backyard is up to par. That said, it would be ideal to hold your summer party on your deck or patio, but even if you don’t have these, it’s still important to prepare adequate seating arrangement and outdoor table for your guests.
What’s more, you want to prune the trees and shrubbery as well as mow the lawn so that everyone is comfortable. Make things more interesting with decorative cushions and throws. If you’re going to be outside all the time, set up your sound system, laptop or whatever else you’ll be using for playing music, as well.
2. Decorate Accordingly
Aside from the cushions, throws and tablecloths, you want to spice things up in a true summer fashion. In that respect, don’t hesitate to get creative with different flower arrangements as well as interesting accessories.
For instance, torches are a great way to illuminate the area while adding an effective vibe to the whole party atmosphere. If you want, you can also work on your garden décor such as colourful and decorative stones, plant name signs, garden gnomes or other figurines, etc. A truly whimsical touch is definitely the use of fairy lights in the tree or wherever else you can place them.
3. Prepare Your Grill
In case you plan to have a BBQ outdoors and you have an outdoor grill, make sure to prepare it before the guests arrive. Set everything up, make sure that you have enough propane and place a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
After all, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. In the same vein, if you plan to grill and prepare your food inside, take the time to clean and examine your ventilation system and fire ducts – anything can happen when you lose track of time while chatting with your guests and effective fire duct system is your first line of defence in case of fire.
4. Are You Thinking of a Buffet?
If you don’t want to feel the warmth from your grill/stove when it’s already warm enough outside, organizing a buffet may be ideal for your summer party. You can make some quick snacks without having to process them or maybe even order some smaller bites that are ideal for a buffet-style party.
Make sure that you cater to every guest you want to invite, especially if you’re planning a gathering for a close group of friends. That said, consider potential allergies and diets. Of course, make sure that you have plenty of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages cooling in the fridge.
5. Come Up with Entertainment Options
Chatting is definitely great but if you’ve been thinking about making this summer party a true blast, you should definitely prepare some fun entertainment options as a host. For instance, you can organize an outdoor movie viewing with a simple DIY movie set. Also, you can prepare the essentials for some active outdoor games such as badminton, volleyball, etc.
On the other hand, you can prepare cards, Jenga and maybe even some board games. Of course, games such as “who am I” and “never have I ever…” are staples.
6. Bye-Bye Bugs!
The worst enemy of every summer party held outdoors are annoying mosquitoes and other insects. That said, you want to make sure that your guests are comfortable and don’t have to worry about the bugs too much. If possible, use mesh netting to protect the party area.
Other options include using citronella candles and mosquito coils. However, stock up on insect repellent sprays and bite ointments, just in case. You never know when one of your guests might really need something like that.
As a great host of an even greater summer party, make sure that you get your guests home properly. It’s your responsibility to assess who’s truly able to drive and who might benefit more from taking a taxi or maybe even crashing at your place for the night.
Don’t hesitate to discuss this at the beginning of the party; that way, some of the guests might find it easier to relax and enjoy themselves to the fullest.
