Now that the days are getting longer and warmer, it’s time to start thinking about summer entertaining. Whether you’re planning a small family barbecue or an intimate gathering with just a few friends, it’s important to make sure that your backyard is ready to entertain guests.
The right setup can make all the difference when it comes to creating a memorable evening.
Create a Space for Lounging and Dining
If you’re entertaining outdoors, you want your guests to have space to sit down, relax and enjoy themselves. If you haven’t already, create a space for lounging and dining in a comfortable area of your yard.
Most people choose to place their outdoor entertaining area near the back or side doors of their homes. But if this area isn’t ideal, don’t be afraid to move out farther into the yard.
When creating your space, consider:
- Sunlight. If the sun beats down on your patio all day, make sure that you have a way to create shade. Umbrellas, pergolas and gazebos are great options for creating cooler, shaded areas.
- Wind. Avoid placing your dining and grilling area in a windy area of the yard. You don’t want to smoke out your guests while you’re cooking.
- Rainfall. Avoid areas with poor drainage. Guests don’t want to wade through puddles or get flooded out if a surprise rainstorm rolls through.
Invest in Bug Defense
Bugs love summer just as much as we do. While there’s no way to make your backyard insect-free (you wouldn’t want to either), you can take steps to make things a little more comfortable for your guests.
Tiki torches and citronella candles are two simple ways to keep mosquitos and other bugs at bay. You can also choose to treat your backyard for mosquitos.
If you live in a hot and humid climate, mosquito treatment is a must. Not only are they pesky, but they also carry diseases and can really put a damper on the evening.
Prep Your Grill for the Season
After a long, dormant winter, it’s time to get your grill ready for summer. But if you want a blockbuster barbecue, you’ll need to do more than just pull your grill out from hiding.
- Inspect your grill to make sure there’s no debris inside. Check handles and racks to make sure they’re working properly. Look for signs of rust.
- Use warm, soapy water and a clean cloth to remove any dirt or grime that’s built up over the season. Don’t forget to remove any leftover grime from last year’s grilling season.
- A clean grill will give you the best cooking experience, and if you’re serving guests, you want your food to be memorable for the right reasons.
Light Up the Scene
What’s the lighting situation in your entertaining area? It’s worth the investment to install lighting in areas where you plan to entertain. Not only does it add to the ambiance, but it also makes your space safer for guests to navigate.
String lights, Tiki torches, and solar lanterns are all great options for outdoor lighting.
If you plan on entertaining this summer, use these tips to get your backyard ready for guests. The right setting with the right lighting and food can really make the evening memorable.