5 EASY TIPS FOR HOSTING A SUMMER DINNER PARTY
Happy Monday, babes -
I hope you all had a beautiful weekend! As most of you know, we entertain A LOT. Whether it's just a couple of friends over for dinner or a big Summer soiree, it's nice to have the details planned ahead of time so you can actually enjoy the party, rather than simply hosting it. Here are my 5 tips for entertaining at home this Summer:
NO. ONE /
BACKGROUND MUSIC.
When your guests walk in, make sure the first thing they feel is comfortable. Light a few candles around the entry way, make sure the surrounding lamps are on, and have easy music playing in the background. For us, we love turning on a James Arthur or James Bay vinyl on our record player. It's soothing and instantly gives our entry way a cozy, vintage vibe that we love.
NO. TWO /
HAVE A DRINK READY.
No matter what it is, fresh lemonade or a cocktail, always have a drink ready to hand your guests within the first few minutes of walking in the door. Like us, most of our friends drink cocktails in the summertime, so we usually have a few things sitting on the bar, ready to go. Our favorites usually consist of vodka and tequila (I'm a vodka girl, J Run is a tequila lover), San Pellegrino, POM (pomegranate juice) or grapefruit juice, and fresh lime. Having options covers all your basis and makes it easy to go back and forth to refill their glass. Or, if you're not into liquor, have a rosè bar! We usually go to Trader Joe's and stock up on 5-6 bottles for next to nothing (their prices are amazing) and not only do your guests have options, it's really pretty on your bar, too! #summerwater
NO. THREE /
GRILL OUT.
We use our grill almost every night during the Summer + Fall, but it's especially helpful when entertaining. When the weather is warm and the drinks are flowing, more often than not, we want to be outside. Rather than staying in the kitchen to finish dinner, you can be outside with your guests - multitasking. J loves to grill and loves the company outside while doing so even more. We were so intentional about making our backyard private, comfortable, and perfect for happy hours!
NO. FOUR /
THROW IT ALL ON THE TABLE.
Once dinner is officially ready, use your favorite serving pieces to throw it all on the table. Having easy access to the food to fill and refill your plates without having to get up or go in a different room is so helpful. It also makes your guests feel even more comfortable to get seconds when it's right in front of them. Plus, who doesn't love a table full of food? I know it makes my 'it's complicated' heart happy! Also, fill a pitcher or carafe with extra water (or simply a bottle of SP like us!) to refill drinks at the table, too!
NO. FIVE /
CLEAN UP AFTER.
It's often tempting to collect plates and start cleaning up while you're guests are still there. But, collect them and leave them in the kitchen! As much as you may want to knock it out, it will take the same amount of time after your guests leave and allows you to continue hanging out, rather than turning into the maid. I rarely let guests help us clean up, simply because I know J and I can knock out in 10-15 minutes after they leave. I would much rather start a game, have another cocktail, or make a fire in the back than hiding away in the kitchen doing dishes while friends are still over!
Thanks so much for stopping by, XX.
M E G