Outdoor entertaining ideas: Simple ways to wow your guests

by Cathy Roberts 11/13/2023

Group of folks having dinner

If you want to make great use of your outdoor living space, it never hurts to have a few extra outdoor entertaining ideas. Hosting an outdoor dinner party or other gathering is possible all year with the right planning and supplies. To inspire your outdoor entertaining plans, try these simple ideas:

Prioritize your guests' comfort when entertaining outdoors

Weather is definitely one of the most important considerations at outdoor events. Your guests shouldn't have to worry about cold or hot temperatures, so gather the necessary supplies and comfort throughout the day. Add throw blankets on chilly nights and evenings, or go even further with fireplaces and outside heaters if desired. 

Keep pests at bay

Mosquitos and other pests can be a huge source of frustration at outdoor events. To keep them away, set up the proper protection for your outdoor space. Citronella candles are a fragrant favorite for keeping mosquitos at bay, and bringing a basic box fan outdoors to keep the air moving is another simple strategy.

Use casual dishes & glassware

Your fancy dishware might enhance your food’s aesthetics, but it’s not worth the chance of accidentally breaking a family heirloom. Instead, invest in casual but functional dishes and glassware. Modern acrylic cups and glasses are a close match for real glass, but won’t break on hard outdoor surfaces.

Repurpose indoor items

Almost anything which works inside can be repurposed outside. Create indoor-outdoor spaces for people to relax by using favorite pieces from inside your home. A discussion area or lounge area can be set up to give ample seating for groups. Spreading rugs and pillows will enhance the coziness of any outdoor party.

Outdoor entertaining is a wonderful way to enjoy your outdoor space any time of year. With the right outdoor furniture and accessories, these ideas will help you plan your next outdoor entertaining season and beyond.

About the Author
Author

Cathy Roberts

Trusted Advisor, Friend, and Neighbor

With 20 years’ experience in real estate and mortgage lending, along with deep roots in Franklin County, Cathy is the real estate expert with both local knowledge and a global network at her finger tips. Cathy connects with her clients, actively and respectfully listening to what their needs are, and delivers results for them, time and again.

Cathy understands the complexity of the lending side of real estate transactions, and brings in-depth knowledge to both buyers and sellers. Cathy is also the recipient of the coveted 10 Best Real Estate Agent for Client Satisfaction two years in a row in Massachusetts.

Cathy covers Franklin and Hampshire counties in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. Cathy would be honored to put her real estate experience to work for you.