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Make outdoor entertaining stress-free with these simple ideas.
Think hot dogs, corn on the cob, then cupcakes or popsicles for dessert.
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Gussy Up a Plain Cake for Dessert
Who wants to bake in the middle of summer?
Let AI Be Your DJ
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Looking for the perfect picnic playlist?
Rather than handcraft it, look for mood options on music streaming services.
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Make Your Meal DIY
You supply the fixings, let them create the feast.
Ice cream and sundae fixings take care of dessert.
Focus on Comfy Seating
Thick, comfortable chair cushions will encourage guests to linger at the table.
Victor Protasio
If the kids (or adults!)
Dont Stress About Matching Dishware
Dont get overly fussy withdinnerwarean eclectic mix feels more laid-back anyway.
Feel free to pair your crisp white plates with vintage florals or even modern stripes for a relaxed vibe.
Greg DuPree
Work With the Weather
Make wind less of an issue by skipping a tablecloth altogether.
Repurpose Indoor Furniture
When covered with pillows, a cot becomes an outdoor settee.
Just remember to pull everything inside once the party is over.
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Choose Unfussy Decorations
Floating peonies and gardenias makea pretty centerpiece.
Place the dish on top and it will stay colder for longer.
Just be sure to keep an eye on these dishes and replace the dip and ice bath as needed.
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Find New Uses for Old Things
Keep bugs away from food with an upended wire-mesh colander.
Use ice-pop sticks to distinguish the rare burgers from the well-done.
Lean on Nature for Supplies
Not enough seating to go around?
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Even tree stumps will do just fine.
Encourage Guests to Serve Themselves
Set up a lemonade stand to keep guests hydrated.
Place glasses within easy reach on a dessert stand.
Marcus Nilsson
This way, everyone can grab what they need and you won’t have to play bartender.
Get Inspired By the Shore
Embrace a seasonally-appropriate theme, like a seashore motif.
Seashells lend acoastal vibe, and tie a starfish to a basic napkin ring for a beachy feel.
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Borrow From Your Garden
Fill colorful pails with straight-from-the-garden flowers.
Let the Weather Determine the Menu
Steamy night?
Keep guests plied with simple fare like sparkling drinks and savory bites.
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Repurposed white Christmas lights also provide a magical twinkle effect.
Even inexpensive tea lights set in clean glass jam jars can create ambience.
Carefulwith a scene this magical, your guests will want to stick around late into the night.
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The scent will help keep bugs at bay.
Use Overhead Lighting
Wrap a vintage chandelier with fairy lights for a romantic vibe.
Gather ‘Round the Fire
A fire pit is a must for smores and stories.
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Add Areas for Both Sitting and Lounging
The mark of a great summer evening?
No one is in any rush and everyone wants to hang out late into the night.
Pull out the sturdy wicker furniture, perfect for lolling in on lazy summer nights.
Deborah Jaffe
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Jonny Valiant
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