Backyard Patio Entertaining Inspirations

Easy summer outdoor entertaining inspirations

Entertaining

We have made entertaining part of our lifestyle. We love hosting, partying and just sitting down with friends and having a nice evening.  I don’t always host big hooplas, that throw my budget out the window ( although, I have done that, I am the wiser now). Hosting small, intimate gatherings have become one of my favorite things to do; and so I wanted to share a couple of tips for easy entertaining.

Simplifying Entertaining…

When you have the right pieces, setting and of course the right people, entertaining is very enjoyable and fun! So gather some of your favorite friends and try a couple of these ideas and inspirations on your next back yard summer bash.

Entertaining

Entertaining

The right ingredients + the proper tools + proper set up

I have learned that there are 3 key steps, to  successful + stress free entertaining.  First; having the right ingredients, second: having the right tools and third: having everything properly set up ahead of time.  That’s it! That is the key to easy entertaining.  You don’t need fancy utensils, you don’t have to blow your budget & you certainly don’t have to hire a party planner -every time you host an event- you can do this!

Let’s explore what I mean…

Entertaining

Entertaining

The right ingredients

Start with good seasonal ingredients.  Not only will these ingredients be at the peek of their flavor, they will most likely be on sale as well. Let the seasonal ingredients guide the theme of your party. Keep it simple. Don’t buy too many ingredients. See what is available and plan your menu accordingly. Don’t forget your drink menu!

Entertaining

Entertaining

+ the proper tools 

The second thing that I recommend is make sure you have all of the serving tools that you need and that all of your equipment is working properly.  This includes making sure you have enough seating for everyone, side tables for your guests to place their drinks, proper shade from the sun and an outdoor fan/heater for comfort.

If you are grilling,  make sure you have everything you need to manage your grill.  Don’t forget about you Bar. Stock up on all the serving goodies and tools you will need for your bar. Here are some of my favorites, and the affiliate links of where you can purchase them.*

Entertaining

Entertaining

Entertaining

+ proper set up

My last tip is make sure that you have the proper set-up. This means get organized, do your prepping ahead of time. Look at your space make sure sure there is a flow. That your food is near your table, that your drinks are near your sitting areas-so that you can prepare your drinks while still entertaining/engaging with your guests.

Entertaining

@ericolsendesign

Whatever your outdoor living space dream is make it happen and make it yours. Grab inspirations and then tweak  it to fit your space and your design style! Here are some of our inspirations for our outdoor living/entertaining space.

Entertaining

Entertaining

Entertaining

Entertaining