CHOOSE A THEME DRINK
Beer, wine and water/soda or juice are somewhat of a requirement. But don't
go overboard with the mixed drinks. Most guests won't want to take the time
to prepare them and it can be expensive to stock a bar. Instead opt for a
theme cocktail and prepare jugs ahead of time. Put out 2-3 bottles of your
alcohol of choice next to the virgin concoction so that guests may choose to
imbibe or not. Don't forget the garnish!
40 Cool Drinks For A Hot Summer Day
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5
LIGHT IT RIGHT
Outdoor lighting adds a gentle ambienance to the
evening. If you're outside while it's getting dark,
your eyes will adjust, so dim lighting is all that is
necessary. Hang strings of lights on the deck, the
fence, even tree branches, and add some hurricane
lanterns or tealights. Try globe string lights, elegant
round bulbs that give off a warm glow (try
Room Essentials Clear Globe Lights; $15,
target.com). Or mix and match vases, candle
holders, birdcages and trinkets and hang
them from trees for a real fairy tale garden.
What to do with extension cords (a.k.a. trip
wires) If you need to run cords through the
yard, snip old wire hangers with a wire cutter
and bend them into skinny U-shaped pegs
(like croquet wickets, but only an inch or
two wide). Then arc them over the cords and
hammer them flush into the ground. Problem solved.
LOST IN THE WIND
Make wind less of an issue by
skipping a tablecloth. Weight
dishes - and greet guests - with
small ramekins of fresh fruit.
MAKE THE
MOST OF
YOUR SPACE
Use tiered cake
stands or tiered
servers to make the
most of your space
by stacking low
glasses, a variety of
breads or pastries or
fruits. A tiered stand
adds visual interest
to your buffet tables
and saves room.
Pretty and practical!
