Your Four-Step Plan to Throwing the Perfect Summer Party

Friends enjoying outdoor entertaining during a summer party

Summer has a way of bringing family and friends together, and what better way to enjoy the season than an outdoor bash?

Stress less as you prepare for your summer party with our four-step plan. You’ll be ready to turn your humble abode into the perfect place for entertaining.

  1. 1. Ready the Yard

The surest way to ensure a less-than-ideal outdoor gathering is having a yard that’s in disarray. Mow your yard about two days prior to your gathering and be sure to collect as many of the grass clippings as you can. 

While you’re at it, check your yard for any hazards like sharp rocks or broken glass, and make sure toys and tools are safely stored. If you have any pets, take the opportunity to clean up after them.

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  1. 2. Decorate your outdoor setting

Whether your house includes an enclosed porch or deck or just a square of yard, dressing it up will enhance your gathering’s mood. 

Place fresh flowers on your table and move potted plants outdoors to bring the season closer to your guests. You’ll also need sufficient seating, so if you haven’t had the opportunity to purchase lawn chairs, move indoor chairs outside. 

If your gathering will extend into the evening, consider outdoor-safe string lights, solar lighting or candles to keep the party alight after the sun goes down.

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3. Kick mosquitoes out

They may not be anywhere on the guest list, but mosquitoes always find a way to invite themselves to outdoor gatherings. Plugging in some box fans around your deck will discourage these pests from flying around your guests too much. 

Invest in eucalyptus and citronella candles, which both repel mosquitoes and add to the ambience of your party. As a preventative measure, remove any isolated rainwater from your yard before your party; still water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, not to mention unsightly in general.

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  1. 4. Dish out the food

The highlight of most any summer get-together, aside from the camaraderie, will be the food and drink. To be sure all of your guests can take part, check ahead of time to see if anyone has any particular dietary needs or food allergies.

If you want to take some of the preparation off your hands, call it a potluck and have guests bring their own snacks, desserts and drinks. You’ll also want to make sure you have plenty of disposable silverware, plates and napkins, as well as convenient places for guests to place their trash and recyclables. 

Whether you’re planning a traditional menu of hot dogs and burgers on the grill or something more exotic, plan to shop a few days ahead of time so you have everything you need. On the day of the party, if you run out of something or need to substitute, don’t stress – sometimes on-the-fly additions can be the most special.

5. More Fun Tips from Minster Bank

If you plan on hosting people this summer, take a few simple steps to prep for your summer bash. If all goes well, your gathering may become a new annual staple that your friends and family can all look forward to.

Looking for more tips to help make life easier and more fun? Check out our blog to get finance tips, read customer stories and more.

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Published by Minster Bank

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