Summer is here, so entertaining has moved from inside the house to the backyard! One of the best perks of owning a home is getting to host your family and friends for fun get-togethers. So make the most of this barbecue and bonfire season by getting your yard ready for entertaining like a pro this summer.
Here are five ways to make sure your backyard is the place to be this season.
- Set up a home bar.
Nothing says entertaining like a home bar! It is better to overstock than understock when it comes to drinks. Make sure to have alcohol staples on hands, such as beer, wine, vodka, and rum. Remember the ice, fruit for garnishing, and mixing tools. You will also need a good supply of juice, soda, and water that can be used for mixing drinks, and for those who do not want to partake in the alcoholic beverages.
- Up your lighting game.
At the bare minimum, you need enough lighting to keep the party going when the sun goes down. However, for a backyard that really sets the stage for entertaining, add some decorative lights to walkways and add lighting to your landscaping. Do not forget to hang those twinkling lights from posts, roofs, and around railings!
- Get that fire ready.
Everyone loves a good place to cook some hot dogs and s’mores! Not only does a good fire pit give you a place to cook, but it also becomes the gathering point of a backyard party when it starts to get chilly in the evening. If there is a burn ban in your area, or if you do not love the smell of a bonfire, you can opt for a propane fire option.
- Think about the kids.
It is always a good idea to have some kid-friendly activities set up so that the children are entertained and the parents can relax and enjoy the party a bit. Put out coloring books, crayons, and board games on tables. Have a few balls outside to kick around or set up some yard games that the kids can play. If you plan on the party going into the evening, throw up a sheet on the side of the house and play an age-appropriate movie for an outdoor movie night!
- Plan ahead.
Planning ahead always makes things go more smoothly. Get your menu planned out as well as any theme or decorations you might want. Make sure you prep as much as you can ahead of time so that you reduce the stress of hosting. Remember to not overdo it on the activities. You planned this to entertain and have a good time. Do not get so overwhelmed by the details that you are too stressed out to enjoy yourself!
Now that you have some great tips for how to entertain like a pro this summer, break out that grill and start planning your next backyard barbecue!
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