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The sun is shining, the days are getting longer and the temperature is rising outside. It’s time to get excited about hosting outdoor parties at your home! From barbeques to baby showers, spring and summer are the best times to get outside and enjoy your outdoor space.
But what if you don’t really have an outdoor space? What if the space you have is lack-luster and unappealing? Fear not! There is still time to create a wonderful outdoor space that will satisfy you and your guests all season long. Follow this list of ideas and tips to help you get your outdoor space ready for entertaining any crowd.
Clear a space for each activity
Finding outdoor space can be difficult, especially if you have a small space to work with. Designating areas for specific activities will not only make the best use of your space, but also make your area seem a lot bigger, especially when there are a lot of people filling it!
Create separate spaces for dining, dancing, games and whatever other things you and your guests like. Make the transitions easier by creating lighted pathways or adding stair kits to guide guests from one space to the other.
Turn it inside out
When you want to create an elegant and inviting outdoor space, don’t be afraid to bring the inside out. Use furniture, lighting, dinnerware and other in-home items to create a homey space outside. Doing this will make you and your guests more comfortable and relaxed, and the added sophistication of real china instead of flimsy paper plates is always a plus.
Protect your things from the weather by putting up some shade and arranging items so that the walls of your home and fence can block light, wind and whatever else may come your way.
Don’t forget about lighting
If you want your parties to go from day to night, or you utilize a shaded space, you cannot rely on natural light alone to keep the party going. String lights are a classic go-to, making a whimsical ambiance and giving off subtle light.
There are unlimited unique ideas for lighting outside. Use small candles in mason jars on tables or hung overhead for a rustic look. Create a wood-burning fire pit to please your inner outdoorsman (or outdoorswoman!).
Reduce the in-and-out cycle
There are few things more annoying that having to run in and out of the house to get things for your outdoor party. Make a few simple adjustments to reduce this cycle.
It is always a good idea to have a small fridge outdoors all summer long. Keep it stocked with drinks and appetizers, making refilling the refreshment table less of a hassle. Have plenty of trash cans and designated spots for dirty dishes and other used items, away from the food of course.
If you are going to have a big party, you might even consider renting a porta-potty for the event. The idea sounds gross and unrealistic, but the idea is usually a not cleaner and reasonable than having dirty guests tracking in and out of your home all night. This way, you will enjoy your party and the next day clean up!
Author Bio:
Tina Hamilton is an established journalist, blogger and DIY project addict. You can usually find her scouring Pinterest for new project ideas or outside with her dog in Southern California. You can follow her on Twitter.
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