SJ’s summer entertaining essentials.
With the warmer months fast-approaching, many of us are getting ripe and ready to entertain guests in our homes. You see, in the summer months it’s easy to take full advantage of our outdoor spaces, firing up the BBQ to enjoy blissful sunsets and long Sunday lunches.
However, for some people, they can’t think of anything worse than entertaining at home and so I’m here to take the stress out of summer soirees forever more. This essentials guide will break it down into easy-peasy achievable bites, ensuring you can enjoy summer entertaining as much as I do!
Create your theme
The success of your festivity relies solely on your prior preparation and organisation. Start by creating your theming which will help to set the tone for your entire event. What’s the vibe you are hoping to achieve? Is it a typical backyard BBQ or a more formal long-table dining experience?
The time of day you plan to host can also impact your intended theming and overall atmosphere. I always recommend a neutral, matchy-matchy colour palette that will suit a wide variety of themes and event types. This basic starter pack of napery, cutlery and glassware will mean you can dress it up or down to suit your entire calendar of summer events. If you feel like having a little fun, add some pops of bright colour which will bring all the good vibes your way!
Play that funky music
Once you’ve decided on your theme, it’s time to curate the perfect playlist! A specially-selected set of tunes really helps to set the tone and mood you’re looking for.
Firing up the pizza oven? Then, maybe a set of Italian classics will fit the bill. But, if you’re keen to hear my favourites it’s big band swooner's for a Saturday night or some 70’s soul for a chilled Sunday afternoon.
Serving time
You might not think it, but the way you serve your meal is extremely important and can be a super fun detail that will wow your guests. Some of my favourites include;
A DIY BBQ
An all-in banquet style feast
Desert station
Gourmet grazing tables
There are so many modern twists on entertaining and this is a great opportunity to have fun with it!
Ice, ice baby!
It goes without saying that summer hosting brings the heat in more ways than one! Once you’ve set the date and time, it’s important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan ahead accordingly.
How are you going to keep things cold? Esky or iced tubs are a great solution if you’re drawing a big crowd, otherwise a second fridge is a good solution too.
As for protecting your guests, make sure there is adequate shade available. If you’re running a little short, an oversized umbrella is a great portable option that can be moved as the sun sets.
It’s all fun and games
Summer soirees should be fun! Especially if you are hosting, you want to make sure your guests enjoy themselves.
From hilarious table topics to backyard bocce and boardgames, there are many ways you can keep your family and friends on their toes. After all, you’re at home with the freedom to let your hair down, so be sure to get amongst it!
Get a couple of spares
Look I’m just saying... We have all been there! Having the right tools can take the hassle (and any embarrassment) out of the day. Be sure to check you are all stocked up on the basics, including that pesky spare gas bottle, and you will be sure to enjoy a stress-free day!