Your Guide to Outdoor Entertaining

The outdoor entertaining season is upon us! Whether you’re throwing a BBQ, a backyard bonfire, or a simple brunch, these entertaining tricks are sure to make your party a success.

Table Settings

The set up of your table is a key element to a successful backyard party. Comfortable seating, dishware, and colour schemes are all important to consider.

Choose a Colour Scheme

Take advantage of the natural surroundings on your property before you pick your colour scheme. Think about the flowers and garden décor that already exists and go from there. Use linens, cutlery and dishware that match. Get more colour scheme ideas here.

Create Comfortable Seating

Comfortable seating is key to entertaining guests for long periods of time. If your chairs don’t already have cushions or pillows, stop into one of your favourite décor stores and pick up cushions and pillows that match your colour scheme. You’ll be shocked at the difference they’ll make not only in comfort, but also in style.

Lighting

Proper lighting is important in setting the mood of your get-together. From cozy fires, to candles and string lights — be sure to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Start a Fire

A firepit is a great way to keep you and your guests warm throughout the party. Preferably for evening entertainment, a firepit not only makes your guests comfortable, but it also provides a place to gather after dinner has ended. To compliment your fire, ensure there’s ample seating and marshmallows to roast.

Repel Pests

Mosquitoes are uninvited guests at every outdoor event. Keep the pests from ruining your party by lighting decorative citronella candles that will serve the duel purpose of providing mood lighting and deterring insects. You can also burn incense sticks to keep mosquitos at bay. Learn how to make your own citronella candles here.

Decorate with String Lights

Add a subtle touch of elegance to your gathering by hanging string lights. Drape them across your bushes or trees, or pile them together to create the feeling of a lantern. String lights are easy to set up, and add tranquil sophistication to your backyard.

Wining and Dining

One of the most memorable things about a party is the food. These tips will delight your guests and make cooking easy.

Keep it Simple

If you’re hosting a barbeque, keep the menu as simple as possible; after all, the star of the meal is whatever is on the grill. Whether you’re doing surf-and-turf, or hamburgers and sausages — make your side dishes simple, with easy to prepare salads, quick dips for veggies and chips, and a cooler filled with the basics — wine, sparkling and still water, beer and pop. Get some classic barbeque recipes here.

Make Hors d’oeuvres Instead

Sometimes appetizers can be just as satisfying as a full course meal. Instead of serving a set dinner course, make a variety of hors d’oeuvres. Along with making a few options of your own, don’t be afraid to ask or accept offers from your guests to bring one of their favourite appetizers to serve as well — this will lighten your load and offer up a wide selection of tasty dishes. Find easy summer appetizer recipes here.

Let Guests Serve Themselves

Create a relaxing and laid back environment by setting up a drink station where guests can pour their own beverages. Also, set up a food table where guests can help themselves to refreshments. Get creative with your serving stations, use a wheelbarrow as an ice bucket, or create a make-it-yourself cocktail bar.

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