Summer Entertaining Tips from an Interior Designer

With its warm weather and plentiful hours of daylight, the summer season is perfect for backyard gatherings with friends and family. I love to entertain in any season, and summer entertaining is especially fun because people are happier in nice weather!

If you’re hosting an outdoor get-together this summer, follow my tips for creating an inviting outdoor space that makes summer entertaining a breeze.

First, set the scene:

Sitting Area

Large patio sectional in neutral Sunbrella fabric. Designed by MO Interiors.

Provide your guests with a comfortable place to gather and mingle. Pick a large patio sofa/sectional or a patio set with neutral fabric made for outdoors. I highly recommend Sunbrella fabric, which is renowned for its durability and resistance to sun and stains. Pair your seating with a patterned outdoor area rug and throw pillows. Position your seating closer than you would for an indoor room to encourage conversation among your guests.

A round coffee table is a space saver that allows free movement. Designed by MO Interiors.

For a coffee table, I love the idea of using a round gas fire pit with a flat cover so it is a table by day and firepit by night. A firepit in your entertainment space allows you to continue using the space comfortably when the weather turns cooler. *Pro interior designer tip* round coffee tables are space savers that allow freer movement without sharp corners or turns and often works well in small seating areas.

Dining Table/Eating Area

A well-set dining table sets a stunning mood for any party. Designed by MO Interiors.

I enjoy formal sit-down dinners, even on hot summer days. A well-set dining table sets a stunning mood for the party. I dress my table before guests arrive with a tablecloth, fresh flowers in a decorative vase in the center of the table, candles, red and white wine glasses, plates, utensils and formal napkins. A portable side table to hold food platters and drinks is super helpful if you have the space.

String Lights

String lights add a touch of warmth and coziness. Designed by MO Interiors.

String lights over your deck or patio are a must for late-night outdoor entertaining. These versatile lights add a touch of warmth and coziness, making your space more relaxing and enjoyable. String lights remind me of fun nights out in a beer garden in Germany and I love recreating this ambiance in my own backyard.

When purchasing string lights for your outdoor space, double check that they are durable and weather-proof and made for the outdoors. I prefer the vintage look of Edison bulbs in classic white or yellow hues, but stringing a variety of colors is a fun and bold option.

Plants and Flowers

Plants in an outdoor space add color, texture and visual interest. Designed by MO Interiors.

If you’ve read my other blog posts or follow me on Facebook or Instagram, you know I recommend plants in every room for their health benefits and pops of color. Live plants in your outdoor space have a similar effect, adding color, texture and visual interest. Place colorful annuals in decorative pots of various sizes around your patio or deck. Before hosting guests, weed your flower beds and plant new seasonal flowers. Be sure to include citronella geraniums among your flowers for a natural mosquito deterrent.

Next, plan the entertainment:

The Menu

Tavola Charcuterie of Westfield/Garwood, NJ designs custom charcuterie boards for any occasion. Photo courtesty of Tavola Charcuterie.

We all know that good food brings out a good mood - planning the right quantities and items that everyone on your guest list can eat is essential! I’m lucky to live in New Jersey, the Garden State, with plenty of farm fresh-fruits and vegetables available for my summer entertaining menu.

First, start with simple summer appetizers that are light and refreshing. Seasonal veggies, fruit, cheese and cured meat make a colorful charcuterie with well-balanced flavors, textures and ingredients. When time is of the essence, I work with my friends at Tavola Charcuterie on a custom board that is perfect for the occasion. Tavola is a local Westfield, NJ, business and I love to support my friends and fellow female entrepreneurs whenever I can.

Providing a selection of appetizers ensures there is something for everyone. The same goes for the main course, whether you are barbecuing or catering.  Serving a variety of white and red meat, seafood, and something for vegetarians meets everyone’s dietary needs. A gracious host always asks her guests for dietary restrictions in advance of the gathering and plans the menu accordingly.

Libations

Photo courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens.

For a perfect sip of summer, I am a hardcore Chardonnay girl but there are so many refreshing wines and cocktails that are perfect for summer - it all depends on what you and your guests like to drink. It’s always a great idea to have a variety of drinks, from beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic, in a cooler close to where people are sitting.

Better Homes and Gardens recently posted an article on pitcher cocktail recipes for parties, which included so many delicious summer cocktails. One in particular caught my interest, an Italian Aperol called Apposta Cocktail, a mix of gin, Aperol, sweet white vermouth with tart lemon and grapefruit soda. I personally made this cocktail at a recent summer gathering and my guests loved it.

Music

Finally, don’t forget the music. Music helps set the mood and brings people together. I love my 90’s Hits on Spotify - it always hits the right tone and brings back memories, whether I’m hosting or simply enjoying the backyard with my family.

If your outdoor space needs time and attention, I’m here to help. Your backyard is an extension of your home and deserves the same love and care as your home interior. Click below to schedule a free discovery call or leave a comment to let me know how you prepare to host a summer soiree!