Throw the perfect backyard party

Wed., June 7, 2006

ARA Content

The outdoors is in. Developing a decor driven by personal style and functional purpose is no longer reserved for just the interior of a home. With the summer months coming many people want to show off their decks and outdoor living spaces by hosting an outdoor party or event.

Here are some great tips for planning and hosting the perfect backyard party:

•1) Create an outdoor space conducive to conversation. Remember the different seating, standing and table options commonly found indoors, and offer the same mix on your deck or patio. Softly textured (but sturdy) throw pillows and rugs will make the party much cozier than plastic chairs.

•2) Tidy up. Remove any debris or leaves and give your outdoor living space a good cleaning. Double-check your deck to make sure there are no loose nails or rails that could pose an injury threat!

•3) Get your lawn and garden in shape. Just as parties indoors flow from the kitchen to other rooms, your outdoor party guests will likely spill over from the deck into the yard, especially if it’s a big party. Make sure your grass is trimmed and clean up after pets before guests arrive. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, plant a few new shrubs or trees for an extra Wow! factor.

•4) Plan ahead for uninvited guests. Stock up on citronella candles or mosquito-repellant yard pellets before your deck party. Preventive measures will help keep you and your guests from swatting at bugs or taking your party inside.

•5) Decorate with style. The deck is the foundation of your outdoor living area, but don’t forget to bring your personal style and favorite colors, patterns and fabrics outside. Umbrellas, table linens, seat cushions, lighting, flowerpots and planters make fabulous decorative additions. Stick with these more permanent decorative items, rather than throwaways.

•6) Serve simple refreshments. You’ll want to spend your party outside with your guests –not trapped in the kitchen. Look for pre-packaged beverages or drinks you can make in large batches, and finger foods or foods you can throw on the grill without fussing over numerous ingredients.

•7) Set the mood with lighting. If you’re having an open house or get-together that will run from daytime into the night, decorate your deck with candles, tiki torches and fun strings of plug-in party lanterns. They provide a nice lighting transition without harsh indoor or bug-attracting lights.

•8) Tune in to your favorite tunes. If you don’t have speakers wired outside, a small stereo is perfect. Compact discs or MP3s offer great party or background music and allow you to customize music for your shindig.

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