Summer Party Planning Tips

Summer should be about kicking back and toasting the company of friends. By following these quick tips you can save yourself time, money and stress, and make any occasion this summer memorable and relaxing.

• Simple meals served buffet-style are often the best and simplest way to entertain a group, especially if you have limited seating.
• Try and create a menu with contrasting colors, textures and temperatures to provide a nice presentation and accommodate different tastes.
• Preparing as much of your menu ahead of time is essential when entertaining a crowd. Select recipes and food that can be made or prepared in advance.
• Set up a bar with a variety of wines, soft drinks, ice, glasses, and festive napkins so guests can serve themselves.
• Protect food from insects by keeping it in covered containers or under a netted food dome. It may be best to keep all your food on a buffet table under a netted outdoor tent. You can also prevent ants from marching up onto your food table by placing each table leg in a small container of water.
• Citronella candles are a must-have for warding off mosquitoes and flies. Place a big one, or a gathering of smaller ones, in the center of tables or around your entertaining space. Find citronella candles in decorative containers or make your own.
  
  

Celebrate the season with GivingGallery's Summer Barbecue Contest