One of my favorite parts about the longer days this time of year is being able to entertain our friends outside. I love the relaxing, casual vibe that comes with hosting outdoors.
Whether it be afternoon cocktails and appetizers, a casual grilling night, or a dinner party with our favorite couples, entertaining outdoors this time of year is sure to be a great time.
If you haven’t planned an outdoor gathering this year yet, I challenge you to plan one soon using the tips below, or at least make a batch of the yummy white summer sangria.
This post is sponsored in part by Wayfair but, as always, all thoughts are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that support The Blush Magnolia.
Set up an outdoor beverage station.
One of my favorite tips for outdoor entertaining is to set up a mobile beverage station outdoors. Having everything your guests need to drink outside minimizes traffic inside the house and keeps the AC inside where it belongs. It also ensures that your guests will have easy access to a cool, refreshing beverage all evening long. I just added this beverage tub from Wayfair to our screened in porch and it is absolutely perfect for entertaining. We fill it with ice and it keeps crisp white wines and beer chilled. The little shelf below is just perfect for cups and glassware that your guests might need and is also the perfect height for a pitcher of water or juice boxes for the kids.
Bring the music outside.
What is a party without music? Just because you’re outdoors doesn’t mean you have to leave the music inside. I really think there are few things more relaxing than listening to music outside while sipping a crisp, cool beverage. Corey is always in charge of choosing the Pandora station du jour when we are hosting guests. Our favorite is definitely Hip Hop Barbecue.
Add some lighting.
If your get together is in the evening, don’t forget about lighting. I love little tea lights on the table, outdoor lanterns, and string lights. Something about string lights make me feel like I am eating dinner with the Braverman’s from Parenthood, which just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Prepare some easy appetizers.
I always try to have a couple appetizers ready and waiting before my guests arrive. When the weather is nice and we are able to be outside, I love things that are both quick and easy to prepare but also use fresh ingredients that are in season. One of my biggest lessons I’ve learned about hostessing over the years is that it really isn’t necessary to prepare anything elaborate. I’ll be sharing my favorite appetizers for summer entertaining soon, like this strawberry crostini that uses basil from my herb garden.
Don’t forget the games.
There are so many fun games to play outdoors this time of year. Consider picking up a set of Cornhole boards or Polish Horsehoe to set up in your back yard. Ring toss is another great option as well to keep everyone entertained.
Make a signature drink.
While this isn’t a must for a successful party, I do think it helps make it more fun! When you have a fun drink prepared and ready, everyone wants to try it. My favorite for summer is this delicious white sangria. Is there really anything more refreshing on a warm summer evening?
Now, more about that white sangria. Here’s the recipe:
- 1 – 750ml bottle of Pinot Grigio (or any other white wine you like)
- 1/2 cup orange-flavored Vodka
- 1/4 cup Cointreau
- 1 large orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 Tbsp honey, agave, or simple syrup
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup raspberries
- lemon-lime flavored sparkling water
Wash and prepare all fruit and add to a large pitcher. Pour in the wine, vodka, Cointreau, and honey and mix well. Chill in the refrigerator for several hours. Just before serving, add a splash of sparkling water to each glass. Garnish with an orange slice and enjoy!
Check out all Wayfair has to offer for outdoor entertaining here or shop my favorites from our own home below.
Outdoor Entertaining with Wayfair
Let’s chat: What are your favorite tips for entertaining outdoors?
