MAKE YOUR YARD A FAVORITE GATHERING SPOT

Summer is the perfect time to take your entertaining outdoors in Pierce County. Whether you’re hosting a party or an intimate gathering, a little planning will make for a relaxed and successful event. Here are some useful tips for outdoor mingling:

Bring the indoors out. Pieces from your house can create a comfortable and homey feel. Consider items such as dining chairs, a floor lamp, a small rug, blankets, or other decor items. However you decide to decorate, be sure to have enough seating for everyone.

Make your ambience glow. Lighting is important for setting the tone. There are many options to consider, such as string lights, chandeliers and pendants, solar lights, and candles. Choose a combination that provides enough light without overpowering the scene.

Set up a self-serve bar. Don’t be held hostage to running around serving drinks. When your guests arrive, make them feel at home and encourage them to help themselves. For extra fun, create your own signature drink.

Serve food in stages. Instead of putting out all the food at once, stage the food. While guests are arriving, have appetizers out. Once most have arrived, bring out the main meal. Last (but certainly not least), display your delicious desserts.

Keep the pests away. Nothing ruins an outdoor party faster than pesky insects bothering your guests. Avoid the slaps and stings with citronella candles or torches, incense sticks, essential oils, and gentle bug sprays. Use food screens to keep those bugs away from your spread.

Remember, some things may not go exactly as planned—so go with the flow and have fun!