Tips for Outdoor Entertaining
Entertaining outside is a great way to catch up with friends, especially if you're hosting a large group. But there are some differences when entertaining outside versus inside. We've put together some of our favorite tips for outdoor entertaining to help you with your next party.
Decor
Use small potted herbs for double duty as place card holders, table decoration and a gift for guests to take home with them.
Small mason jars make a great informal votive candle holder for when the sun goes down. Wrap a piece of thin gauge wire around the neck of the jar and create a handle so it can be suspended.
How about digging out your Christmas lights to create a magical lighting display. Hang them in the trees or wrap them around the inside of a sun umbrella.
Comfort
Light citronella candles and/or torches at least an hour before your guests are due to arrive to ensure a "bug-free" zone.
Have bug spray and spray-on sunscreen on hand so guests can apply if needed.
Have seating available for everyone. Some people may want to stand near the grill for a while, but make sure there is somewhere to sit afterwards.
Provide some shade if you have a sunny yard, such as umbrellas or canopies.
Have a fall back plan in case the weather doesn't cooperate with your plans.
Perhaps think about where you're grill is located. It's often easier if it is close to or accessible from the kitchen.
Think about where the seating is positioned - don't have it too close to the grill, otherwise you'll be tripping over people while you're trying to cook.
Have somewhere cool for your guests to escape from the heat.
Grilling
Make sure you have all of the right utensils for the job:
A long handled grill scraper
Long handled tongs - preferably not metal handled ones because they get hot
Flipper
Long handled basting brush
Check to make sure that you have enough fuel for your grill.
If you're cooking steak, ask your guests how they prefer their steak cooked.
Serving
Only use paper plates for serving finger food or food that can be eaten with your hands. If you want to use disposable plates, opt for more rigid plates. There are some great alternatives on the market like these Bamboo Disposable Plates.
Plastic knives and forks are difficult to cut with, especially meat - invest in an inexpensive knife and fork set - they're always very useful.
Use galvanized or plastic tubs filled with ice to keep beer, white wine, soda and water chilled. If you run out of space, use a laundry tub or bath tub filled with icy water and replenish the outside tubs when they run low.
Have a food and drinks table setup - if it's inside, make sure that it's easily accessible from outside. If it's outside, you can have someone managing it so creepy crawlies don't ruin your party.
Beverages
Have plenty of cold sodas and water for guests especially if it's a really hot day.
Make sure you have plenty of ice for drinks as well as keeping beverages cold without needing to refrigerate them.
Share the workload - have your guests bring something, or say yes when they offer to help.