10 ways to jazz up an outdoor party
Keeping guests comfortable and entertained while dining al fresco can seem daunting.
But a few fun items can help you create a cozy space, serve summer foods with flair, and send guests on their way with a reminder of a special backyard barbecue or patio party.
These 10 outdoor dinner party essentials are easy to find, easy to use and easy on the budget:
1 . String Lights or Paper Lanterns
You don't have to deal with the mess of tiki torches to create a warm ambience. Instead, frame your best outdoor views with string lights or paper lanterns that can range from whimsical to contemporary to sophisticated. They're affordable and easy.
They also make a smooth transition from the indoors and help define the outdoor dining area, says Stephanie Grotta, lead designer for Target Corp.'s Smith & Hawken line.
"You really want to create that intimate environment," she says.
2. Outdoor Throw Pillows
Provide plenty of seating, and dress it up or tie together mix-and-match pieces by piling on colorful throw pillows. The trend is to "make the outdoors as comfortable as your living room," says Leigh Oshirak with Pottery Barn Brands.
Use bold patterns, including thick stripes, geometric designs and Indian-inspired florals. Or make your mark with monogramming. Since just about any eye-catching color is in this summer, go with the one you like best or add to what you've already got.
3 . Mister and Fire Bowl
When you're expecting high temperatures, don't just set up fans. Rent, borrow or buy a mister to help tame the heat. You can also find inexpensive kits to turn your garden hose into an effective mister.
If the evening air cools quickly, a fire element will make your outdoor space cozy. Choose from wrought-iron lanterns, fire bowls and rings, or a chiminea. Prepackaged outdoor fire logs only require striking a match. An added bonus: Guests can get campy and roast marshmallows or hot dogs.
4. Insect Repellent
Put away the sticky sprays, and provide guests with wearable insect-repelling items such as bracelets and belt clips. For kids and the young at heart, there are stickers available in fun shapes, including hearts, flowers, dinosaurs and, of course, insects. They'll help protect from pests without leaving residue on skin and clothes.
Outdoor Patio Sets - News
But a few fun items can help you create a cozy space, serve summer foods with flair, and send guests on their way with a reminder of a special backyard barbecue or patio party. You don't have to deal with the mess of tiki torches to create a warm
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