subject: Tips for a Perfect Outdoor Party [print this page] Tips for a Perfect Outdoor Party Tips for a Perfect Outdoor Party
I love living in Texas because a good five to six months out of the year the weather is perfect for entertaining outdoors. Many of my clients have me work with them to create elaborate outdoor spaces complete with televisions, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, drapery and upholstered pieces.
I love to use bold colored fabrics on outdoor furniture pieces. Consider tying in your fabric color scheme with your landscape and native Texas plants. Fuchsia, Coral, Bright Yellow, Citron Green and Aqua are among some of my favorites.
By creating an outdoor space you actually add more room for entertaining and being outdoors is good for your well being. We all spend way too much time indoors. An outdoor party is a great way to get some fresh air and sunshine.
Entertaining outside is also easier on the wear and tear of your home. After all, if red wine is spilled on the patio it is much easier to clean up than if it spills on indoor carpet. Most of the outdoor fabrics are also very durable and easier to clean than indoor fabrics.
Tie your outdoor tableware in with the color scheme you have established for your patio. Dillard's or Bed, Bath and Beyond are great stores to purchase colorful plastic cocktail glasses, plates and cloth napkins. These are safer for entertaining around the pool and patio than glass items.
Some tips for a beautiful table:
Look around your yard. I love to find pretty berries, leaves, rocks and flowerings plants from the landscape to decorate a table. It is enjoyable to search for these items and it is amazing the beautiful things you can find. This will tie your table in beautifully with its surroundings.
Don't forget the citronella candles for ambiance and to keep pesky bugs away. If your party will go into the night be sure to include plenty of light by also adding lanterns, and torches. The food table's surface should be bright enough for guests to see what they're eating.
Rim your pool with candles and float candles in pools and ponds to create additional ambiance and so endure that guests won't dive in, unless that is your intention.
Be sure your food has some color. The Grilled Summer Steak Salad I am recommending this month is colorful, easy to serve and delicious! Pair this meal with a colorful summer drink and cool dessert and for an easy to prepare great time.
