Outdoor entertaining 101 - This time of the year is all about enjoying the great outdoors with family and friends. Whether you're hosting a small get-together or a large party, we guarantee you'll be entertaining like a pro after reading these simple outdoor tips and ideas.
Outdoor party planning
- Send out invitations if you plan on inviting 10 or more people. Invitations should include relevant information such as the date, time, theme (if one), address...
- Assign each guest with a dish/job to lessen the stress on yourself...
- More is more when food's involved. Make 50% more food than what you think guests will eat...
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- Consider anything that might prevent entertaining outside and make sure you have a backup plan...
- Organise plates/glasses/cutlery to ensure there are enough for each guest...
- Ice is important to keep the drinks nice and cool...
- Assess how much furniture you have...
- The bugs are out at this time of year, so ensure you have repellent on hand...
- Slip, slop, slap is important during summer, so ensure there's enough sunscreen to go around...
- Music - A playlist on an iPod should do the trick...
- If there are kids coming over, it's nice to have a separate area in the backyard for them to play...
- Lighting - Lighting is critical, especially at night...
Setting the table
- Reuse and recycle - Decorating an outdoor table doesn’t need to cost a fortune...
- Rustic inspired - Depending on the theme of the day/night, rustic may or may not work...
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- Bold and bright - Add a splash of colour to your table for a fun, vibrant look and feel...
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- Neutral - A neutral palette may be more your style...
Decorating your space
- Candles, lanterns, and string lights not only look pretty but also provide beautiful lighting...
- Find inspiration from your backyard - fill a bowl with stones or rocks for a decorative centerpiece...
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- If there's a theme - ask your guests to dress accordingly and decorate your area to match...
- Photobooths are always a fun option...
