One of the pure and simple joys of summer is outdoor entertaining. It’s a liberating feeling, whether you’re kicking back for a night of casual conversation and drinks or revving up for a barbeque party of blockbuster proportions. Either way, keep things elegantly relaxed and your party is bound to be the hit of the summer.
Festive dinnerware
These bright and festive dishes will add a sense of fun to your outdoor entertaining style. The best part is they’re made of durable material so there’s no panic if they’re dropped! West Elm, $4.85.
Movable bar cart
This is a very handy accessory whether you’re at the cottage or in the backyard. Wheel it up to the door of the house, load it up, then move it to the most convenient spot depending on the crowd you’re entertaining. West Elm, $257.74.
Comfy seating
When you and your guests are ensconced in comfy seating, everyone has a much better time. This blue and white collection also makes it feel like you’ve taken a group vacation to a stylish destination by the seaside. Restoration Hardware,
$360 - $1605.
Ice cream cone and waffle bowls
They’re novel, to be sure, but these ceramic bowl sets make it easy to dish up dessert without a line up of kids and adults waiting for you to scoop and serve. How cute would these be at a dessert party? And they’re also useful in case things start to melt before you’re quite finished! Pottery Barn, $38.18 - $64.70 (set of 4).
Table linens
Part of summer’s beauty is bringing out bright colours after the dreary greys and blacks of winter. Dress your table top decor up with this gorgeous tablecloth. It’ll transform the backyard, too! Horchow, $165 - $235.
Lovely lanterns
Sometimes your gatherings go well into dusk and even late into the evening. In that case, it’s nice to create a little ambience and a few romantic lighting options with lanterns like these. Crate and Barrel, $32.29.
Dining tables
Although you can do buffet style and set up chairs in clusters around the yard, it’s always nice to have a central dining table for a greater sense of intimacy, especially if you’re entertaining a close group of friends or family.
L. L. Bean, $799.
Glassware
Okay – so they’re on the fancier side being made of Italian glass, but these brightly coloured, textured highballs and tumblers are rather irresistible. If you’re hosting an adults-only party, they’re the perfect summer ware for summer wine and cocktails. Horchow, $32 to $38 (set of 6).
Drink dispenser
From flavoured waters and fruit juices to summer cocktails, make it easy for guests to help themselves in case you’re tied up in conversation or cooking. CB2,
$39.95.
Lazy Susan
When you’ve got to fit a lot of stuff on the table, it helps to have a single dish or tray that can handle multiple items for entertaining with style. This lazy Susan is great for beverage needs, flatware and napkins or an array of snacks or condiments.
Pottery Barn, $166.94.