Outdoor Entertaining Tips
Now is a great time to entertaining outdoors. Today entertaining is a lot more fun and a lot more sophisticated. Now that long ago outdoor entertaining meant a picnic in the park with a drink cooler, paper plates and plastic forks, however, today there are so many other options that even dining outdoors can be gourmet. Whether you are lucky enough to have a fully equipped outdoor kitchen or simply a pretty patch of grass, you can throw some memorable outdoor parties, for family and friends. Here are some outdoor entertaining tips that will leave you with some great memories of fun times shared-
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- Have a plan-Just like everything else planning is key, when you are going to entertain outdoors. You want to have everything at hand, to prevent the need to run in and out during the party. One of the secrets of having a great outdoor décor is to bring your favorite indoor decor items outdoors and to have fun decorating with them. Not only does this save money (no need to buy pricey decorations), you can make the space you are entertaining in even more personal. The first step is to think about how you want your space to look when planning an outdoor get-together. You will need to decide if guests will be seated at tables or will be eating while standing or seated in the nearest lawn chair. If you are serving a full meal, be sure to plan a main buffet table for entrees, salads, side dishes and condiments. You can ice down drinks in waterproof containers ranging, from copper tubs, and wheelbarrows, to terra cotta pots. There is no need to go overboard remember that outdoor dining calls, for a simple but elegant table setting.
- Always dress the tables-An easy way to make your party memorable is to dress the tables. You should use paper for cocktail napkins only; for dining, use cloth napkins. You can arrange silverware in inviting "take-one" containers like planters or cachepots. Another money saving tip to add color to the table, is to invest in mix-and-match china pieces in colorful hues. This way you won't be limited by one color palette. Centerpieces can be as simple as small containers of Gerbera daisies or impatiens, along with greenery, or even bowls of summer fruit or veggies.
- Make sure to choose food that is suitable for outdoors-You need to make sure to place buffet tables in shady areas, because direct sunlight will cause even the freshest salad to wilt and dairy-based dishes to go bad. Keep in mind that foods that contain lots of oil or gelatin also don't do well in direct heat. You should be sure to cover them with waxed paper or old-fashioned netting baskets. When planning it is important to keep in mind, that good choices for buffet fare are dishes that serve well at room temperature, like vinegar-based salads, grilled kebabs, beans and noodle dishes.
- Lighting is important-If your party will last into the evening, you can add a little romance with lighting. This is easily done and strands of small, clear lights look wonderful woven through trees, shrubs and fences. These lights are available in lots of different shapes and styles. Another way to add atmosphere to your party is by using candles. They can be placed as groupings, on tabletops in small jars, or holders. You should consider the citronella variety if insects are a concern. Hurricane lanterns, another lighting option. These are great since they will stay lit even if it becomes breezy, and they can double as centerpieces. For an island atmosphere, consider using the tiki-torches that are available at many discount and party stores.
