Nate Berkus: How to Throw an Outdoor Party with Ease

Nate Berkus™ Set of 3 Flameless Candles with Remote Item: 955-445

August is upon us, and there’s still plenty of summer fun to get to. Topping my list: a housewarming party! I’m moving into a new home August 1st, and can’t wait to have friends and family over to see what I’ve been talking about all these months. Moving or not, I bet entertaining is on your list, as well. Summer just brings with it cookouts, backyard parties and people, lots of people, traipsing through your front door for a bit of summer fun.

Here’s my best tips to make sure you’re party ready for the guests when they turn up:

Consider your front porchdeck or balcony as an extension of your home…

Just like you’d want a chair and a table to put a glass down in your living room, make the same accommodations in these areas. Simple chairs dressed with bright indoor/outdoor pillows, weather-friendly poofs, an all-weather rug and collapsible table are all it takes to make an elegant entertaining spot under the stars.

Address the necessities…

No one wants to sit outside when they’re being eaten alive by bugs or getting burned. Keep natural suntan sprays and bug guards on hand with a few citronella torches and candles within easy reach. Lighting is key, as an overhead lamp attracts bugs. Flameless candles are a perfect solution. They won’t blow out on a breezy night, and they set the mood for the night ahead. A portable set of speakers and an MP3 player are all you need to add a beat to the evening.

It’s not a party until cocktails are poured and snacks have been set out…

I keep vodka in the freezer, along with soda water, a refreshing rosé and something fruity like lemonade. This way you have plenty of options to mix up anything your guests might want. Fruit from the farmer’s market and some crackers and cheese are all it takes to give guests something light to munch on.

So, get out there and enjoy… the sun hasn’t set on summer just yet, and your best summer memories might still be ahead of you.

Live well,

Nate

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