Summer Hosting Ideas
Suns out, pools open, grill’s hot, and the firewood is ready for those summer nights! Summertime is perfect for hosting friends and family, but also a time when the family is constantly on the go. Here are some helpful hosting tips to make your summertime a breeze.
One. Buy now.
Now is the time to create your summer stockpile. Grab all the disposable plates, napkins, cups, and cutlery. Don’t forget the big garbage bags!
Stock up on cases of water, lemonade & iced tea mix, sports drinks – whatever keeps your family hydrated. Keep those drink dispensers on hand for easy serving.
Snacks. You can’t forget the snacks. Think easy to prepare and easy to store. Chips and salsa, popcorn, frozen soft pretzels, and the ever favorite – Smore’s are easy snacks to throw out in a pinch.
Two. Easy, Effective, Efficient.
Your food spread can be easy, look great, and not take you all day to prep while everyone else enjoys the sun. Think of recipes that can be prepared the night before; pasta salad or a veggie tray are the perfect examples. Prepare all your burger fixings the night before, including putting all condiments in a small crate for an easy carry to the table.
Tired of the same ol’ burgers and hotdogs? Switch it up with a nacho or taco bar! Prep the sides the night before and throw that meat in a crock pot. Walking tacos also make for an easy and fun poolside meal!
Three. Reset and Replace.
Keep this summer stress free by keeping your entertainment space ready for guests at all times. Put those rafts back after use, replace the empty sunscreen, clean off the grille and Smore skewers, wash the towels, and put your hosting essentials on the next grocery list as soon as you run out!
Bonus Tips:
Music. If you don’t have outdoor speakers, order some inexpensive Bluetooth speakers to create a fun and inviting party environment.
Cold food. Fill the bottom chaffing pan with ice and put your cold food on top. Stays cool in the summer heat.
Bug repellents. Amazon has inexpensive portable fans that can be put around seating areas and the food table to keep bugs away. Your guests will thank you.
Back-up plan. Always be ready to move the party inside or under shelter. It’s better to have both places party-ready than to cancel.
Do the important stuff yourself. It can be helpful when guests bring things to the party, whether food items or activities. Just make sure your party is not dependent on their item in case guests can’t make it last minute.
I hope you are excited about hosting your next summer party and can relax and enjoy your guests!