This is my favorite time of year. The temperature is finally starting to warm up, and everyone is emerging from their winter hibernation to start socializing again. If you are looking to throw a backyard party, here are ten easy secrets of backyard entertaining you don’t want to miss!
1. Create an easy menu
Most of us don’t fall into the gourmet chef category, which means that keeping things simple will ensure that you’re not stuck in the kitchen during your whole party. Stick to easy things like grilling hamburgers or set out some snacks that your guests can munch on while the food is cooking.
2. Make a gorgeous tablescape
Your backyard doesn’t need decor all around, but you can add a simple table runner and some fresh flowers to make a pretty tablescape to elevate your party. Keep it simple and make sure nothing will blow away.
3. Add mood lighting for late-night entertaining
Hang some outdoor lights or light some candles! If you’re partying into the night, you want to make sure everyone can see. You can use lanterns and get creative with your lighting based on what you have available.
4. Make sure you have plenty of seating
Seating doesn’t have to be fancy, but you want to make sure that your guests can sit somewhere. You can use folding chairs or even basic lawn chairs. As long as people can sit when they eat, they’ll be happy.
5. Create decor from your own home
Don’t run to the store to grab decor when you can use what you have at home! If you already own mason jars, use those to hold your silverware, shop around your house and see what you can put together first.
6. Whip up your drinks ahead of time
Get all of your drinks the day before your party and start cooling them off! The day of the party, fill up the coolers with ice, and everything is ready to go! If you’re making any special drinks, put them together the day before.
7. Don’t get carried away
Make a plan and stick to it. Whether it’s an easy outdoor brunch or an entire party, don’t overdo backyard entertaining. This will ultimately overwhelm you as the host, and your guests will notice.
8. You can’t go wrong with the classic party games
Cornhole or ladder golf can be hours of fun for your party guests. No matter how large your backyard is, you can put together some easy party games for everyone to enjoy themselves with.
9. Turn up the jams
Music brings everyone together, even if no one is dancing. Make sure to put out your speakers and get the music going.
10. Embrace nature as your decor
Less clean-up is always a plus, but you can take advantage of all the outdoor nature to serve as your backdrop. A few tiki torches for lighting, and your decor can be set!
Backyard entertaining doesn’t have to be hard! With these easy tricks, you can throw a simple and fun backyard party no matter the occasion.
