Plan on doing a little backyard entertaining this summer? Here are a handful of tips to put your backyard fête on the path to success.
It’s all about the pre
Avoid stress and running around the day of by pre-doing. Pre-make, pre-shop, pre-chop, pre-everything-you-can. If you want people to bring anything, make sure the assignments go out far enough in advance, so guests have plenty of time.
Theme parties are fun (as long as it’s low-pressure)
Everyone loves a good theme party. Everyone who isn’t forced into intricate cosplay or something else that causes them to put in loads of time and effort just to go to a party. As a rule, don’t put the onus on your guests to make or break the theme. It should be about the décor or the menu or the entertainment. Stick to things like Christmas in July or Hawaiian Night or Taco Tuesday. That way your party isn’t a chore, it’s a surprise-and-delight scenario.
Snacks are key
Ask anyone and they’ll tell you, snacks make the party. Have lots of them and strategically place them around the party. An easy go-to that should be at the top of your list is popcorn! It’s the perfectly portable crowd pleaser. If you’re looking for that classic buttery taste, try Orville Redenbacher GourmetTM Popcorn®—easy to make and keep flowing throughout the duration of the party. Or you can up the ante with Angie’s BOOMCHIKAPOP®. It comes in a variety of great flavours and is premade to make everything easier.
Offer a signature beverage
A fun way to kick off any backyard gathering is to have a unique beverage that is specific to you, the theme of the gathering or just on trend. The best way to pull it off is to pre-make a good-sized batch and have a fun way to serve it—like in a special glass, with a fun garnish or from a unique container. The web is filled with ideas to create the perfect beverage for your gathering so pick a good one!
Fun & Games
Having something for your guests to do during the party is a must. Strategically placing a few backyard games around is a great idea. They help keep the vibe loose & interactive and are perfect for when conversation lulls.
Depending on the crowd you have, there are dozens of options; pick a few that are right for your gathering and let the games begin!
Keep visiting Ready Set Eat for tons of recipe ideas, tips, tricks, and inspiration when you’re planning your next gathering.
