One thing about me: I love to host. There’s something so rewarding about bringing people together and creating a space where everyone can relax, connect, and enjoy themselves. But as exciting as it is, planning an event can quickly turn into a long (and sometimes overwhelming) to-do list.
That’s why, as a detail-oriented foodie and seasoned host, I’ve put together a guide to help make your next outdoor gathering feel effortless instead of stressful. From backyard barbecues to al fresco Italian dinners, outdoor movie nights, garden tea parties, and more, these summer-inspired ideas are designed to simplify the process without sacrificing style.
Keep reading for tips, inspiration, and curated product picks to help you host with confidence and keep your event perfectly on theme.
BBQ
Go classic by throwing a backyard barbecue. First, curate your menu with easy proteins and sides that you can throw on the grill, and won’t pull you away from guests for too long (like hamburgers, hot dogs, pre-cut vegetables, corn, etc.). Then, compile your grilling tools and necessities — I like the Williams Sonoma grill tools set for basic needs. Throw some of your favorite beverages in the cooler with ice, and you’re good to go for the evening.
For personal touches, I adore the gingham pattern for traditional barbecues, which you can represent in the plates, tablecloths, or other decor. I grew up playing cornhole during summer gatherings, so that’s always a beloved inclusion — and especially helpful when your guests are getting antsy for food!
Our Picks
- Williams Sonoma Walnut Grill Tools, Set of 3
- White Gingham Paper Plates
- Igloo Small Cooler
- GoSports Solid Wood Cornhole Set
Campfire S’mores
Hanging out around the fire and roasting marshmallows is one of the season’s most exciting activities. Make it cozy by giving your family and guests a plush throw on chilly nights crowded around the fire pit. You’ll need s’mores sticks, of course, and I love organizing a little station where you can place the s’mores ingredients (chocolate, marshmallows, graham crackers). That way guests know where to go for seconds and you can refill it easily. My other pro tip is to have mosquito repellent at the ready so you don’t have to cut your evening short.
Our Picks
- MalloMe S’mores Sticks
- Off! Family Care Insect Mosquito Repellent
- L.L. Bean Plush Throw
- Smore’s Station
Al Fresco Italian
As an Italian-American, my hosting go-to is always European-inspired. This theme can be executed with a high-quality linen tablecloth and fluted taper candles that are lit and spread throughout the tablescape. Place solar outdoor lights on your patio to transform the space, and place your dishes on wooden serveware to truly get that Italian look. My recommendation is to add fresh herbs to the table like rosemary to really nail down the theme. Some possible menu items include negroni or aperol spritz, caprese salad, gnocchi, a protein (like shrimp, branzino, or steak), and gelato or tiramisu for dessert.
Our Picks
- Anthropologie Fluted Taper Candles
- European Linen Tablecloth
- Solar Outdoor Lights
- Tondo Acacia Oval Platter
Poolside Brunch
A poolside brunch is super easy to whip together because you already have a gorgeous backdrop. All you need is some shade for guests (hence the umbrella), comfortable seating, and the proper serving elements. Mimosas should be your number one menu item that are already prepared in champagne flutes, with pitchers for juice blends and a coffee maker available. Fresh fruit is usually being picked upon at arrival, so make sure to have a sectioned serving platter at the ready.
Our Picks
- Champagne Flutes
- Patio Umbrella
- 5-Section Serving Platter Set
Outdoor Movie Night
If you have a neutral wall or portion of your house that would be perfect for a projector, then host an outdoor movie night. Stream from your laptop while guests are sitting in comfy bean bag chairs or lawn chairs with pillows to lay on. I’d also provide blankets if it gets colder throughout the night. The food must-haves include popcorn (for which you can even snag those cute red and white popcorn containers), candy, and soft drinks. If your backyard area is dimly lit, it’s wise to purchase pathway lighting so that people can move freely throughout the movie.
Our Picks
- Home Theater Movie Projector
- Outdoor Bean Bag Chair
- SkinnyPop Popcorn
- Eddie Bauer 2-Pack Pillows
Garden Tea Party
Looking for an elegant celebration? Invest in a garden tea party for your closest friends. Of course you’ll need to gather some stunning tea cups and a statement tea pot that you can serve to guests. The tiered stands will be splayed throughout the table with fingerfood on them that people can pick at (think cucumber sandwiches and scones). Make sure to purchase an assortment of tea bags that guests can choose from based on their preference. You can even enforce a more formal dress code for a more aesthetic affair. One more pro tip: have your event invitation mimic the colors of your tablescape to really pull everything together.
Our Picks
- Stoneware Tiered Stand
- Floral Tea Pot
- Williams Sonoma Tea Bag Assortment
- Pottery Barn LoveShackFancy Rose Porcelain Teacups
The post The Ultimate Guide to Effortless Summer Hosting appeared first on The Real Deal by RetailMeNot.
