How to Elevate Your Summer Hosting & Entertaining Tips

Summer—the season of sun-kissed days, balmy evenings and endless opportunities to host fabulous gatherings. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner party or a lively backyard bash, here are some tips to ensure your summer entertaining is chic, memorable and stress-free.

Setting the Scene: Decor Ideas

1. Table Settings: Embrace summer’s vibrant hues with tablecloths, napkins and dish ware. Mix and match patterns for a playful, eclectic look.
2. Natural Elements: Incorporate elements like fresh flowers, potted plants or even bowls of citrus fruits as centerpieces to bring a touch of nature to your decor.
3. Comfortable Seating: Create cozy nooks with outdoor rugs, cushions and throws. Consider setting up a few lounge areas with hammocks or chairs for guests to relax in.
4. Elegant Lighting: Use string lights, lanterns, or even chandeliers hung from trees to create a chic ambiance. Candles in hurricane vases or floating candles in the pool add a romantic touch..
5. Floral Arrangements: Use fresh flowers and greenery to decorate tables and spaces. You can even make a DIY floral ice bucket!

Chic Entertaining Tips

1. Plan Ahead: Make a checklist of everything you need to do and prepare ahead of time. This helps reduce stress and ensures you can enjoy the party along with your guests.
2. Signature Drinks: Offer a couple of signature cocktails or mocktails. Think refreshing options like a classic mojito, a watermelon margarita or a lavender lemonade.
3. Music Matters: Create a summer playlist that sets the mood. Start with mellow tunes and ramp up the tempo as the night progresses.
4. Interactive Elements: Consider setting up a DIY station, like a taco bar, s’mores station or even a build-your-own drink area. This not only makes it easier for you but also adds a fun, interactive element for your guests.

Delicious Summer Recipes

1. Fresh Salads: Keep it light and refreshing with salads. Try a one of my favorites like maroulosalata or an easy to prep ahead pasta salad.
2. Chilled Soups: Serve up some gazpacho or cucumber soup as a starter. These cold soups are perfect for hot summer days.
3. Wine and Cheese Pairings: Host a wine and cheese tasting with a selection of fine wines and artisanal cheeses. Provide tasting notes and pairing suggestions.
4. Gourmet Grilling: Go beyond burgers and hot dogs. Grill high-quality meats, seafood, and vegetables. Think marinated lamb chops, grilled lobster tails, or veggie skewers with a variety of colorful vegetables.
5. Exquisite Appetizers: Serve elegant appetizers like bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil or chorizo date skewers.
6. Decadent Desserts: End on a sweet note with berries & cream bars, lemon blueberry cake or homemade ice cream.

Upgrading Your Summer Parties

1. Photo Fun: Set out disposable cameras or Polaroids, it’s a great way for guests to capture memories.
2. Outdoor Cinema: Set up an outdoor movie screen and show classic films or summer blockbusters. Provide comfortable seating and gourmet popcorn.
3. Lawn Games: Opt for classic games like croquet, bocce ball, or horseshoes. These games are not only fun but also encourage mingling.
4. Personalized Favors: Give guests a small, thoughtful gift to take home. Consider items like custom-labeled bottles of wine, potted herbs, or gourmet chocolate truffles.
5. Comfort Stations: Set up a station with essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, hand fans and even cozy blankets for when the temperature drops in the evening.

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