Don’t let the unexpected bring you down this summer.♡
Instead, be prepared for whatever comes your way when hosting outdoors with these summer entertaining essentials that not only bring a sense of functionality, but a touch of sophistication to your seasonal gathering. With this list of hosting must-haves, never miss out on summer fun and always stay present when spending carefree time with the people who mean the most.
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9 Summer Entertaining Essentials That People Usually Forget When Hosting
When hosting this summer, it might seem obvious to prepare the menu ahead of time, get your pool cleaned up and be sure to mix up some fresh lemonade. These things are synonymous with a relaxed gathering outdoors. But, what about the unexpected? The hot temperatures or the summer bugs that are always buzzing around when unwanted?
Summer entertaining often calls for a bit more preparation to enhance you and your guests’ comfort and experience due to the nature of the season.
So, are you looking to host loved ones poolside out on your back patio? You’ll want to keep scrolling to find your summer entertaining essentials must-have list to ensure you don’t forget any of these functional-meets-style items.
The Serveware You Didn’t Know You Needed
Did you know by serving food family-style, you’re creating deeper bonds with friends and families, especially with children and young adults? According to the National Library of Medicine, “a growing body of research suggests that children and adolescents who share frequent meals with their families report better nutrition indicators, family relationships and mental health.” We believe this is heightened by serving food family-style in large serveware, passed from person to person.
Create a more meaningful experience by serving food in large serving bowls and on serving trays, and beverages in large, chilled pitchers.
Must-Have Summer Serveware
Often Forgotten Summer Entertaining Essential
The Food Cover
When growing up, our grandmothers seemed to think of everything. No matter the season, hosting seemed effortless to them and any problem that arose was solved in a whirl of efficiency and style.
One item Mimi and Nana had during the summer times that we simply can’t get enough of is food covers. During the warm summer months, insects are on the rise and looking for…food, of course! Don’t let your appetizers, side dishes and more have unwelcome visitors by incorporating this must-have summer entertaining essential at hand.
Functionality with Timeless Style.
Our Handwoven Bamboo Food Cover will easily become a staple in your home throughout warmer months as you dine al fresco with loved ones. Carefully woven by hand with two-toned bamboo fibers, this natural food cover protects your menu from natural elements while elevating your overall tablescape look. With a round design that’s large enough to cover most plates, style this stunning piece over dinnerware or a serving tray for peace of mind and stunning style.
The Easy-to-Forget-in-the-Moment Summer Entertaining Essential
Disposable Dinnerware
We are all about making clean-up as easy as possible, but we know the toll plastic and paper dinnerware can have on our environment. How can we shorten our clean up time while caring for our planet? Enter: Dried Areca Palm Disposable Dinnerware!
Complement any dining experience with the earthy undertones of our disposable yet elevated Dried Areca Palm Dinnerware. Made from fallen leaves that are gathered, cleaned and steam-pressed into shape, this set provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic and paper plates and bowls. Each piece provides an elevated yet casual touch to any given affair and is made with natural, compostable and biodegradable materials that can withstand the weight of food and tolerate heat.
Environmentally-friendly, sophisticated, AND less clean-up guaranteed?! Sign us up!
The Unexpected Luxuries That Your Guests Will Appreciate
Hosting poolside? You’re going to want these.
- Plush Beach Towels: Whether you’re planning to swim or not, be ready for the spontaneous with soft beach towels ready to dry off guests and keep everyone comfy!
- Sunscreen: Often forgotten, offer guests skin protection in the hot summer sun with better-for-you sunscreen lotions.
- Outdoor Cooler: We recommend having two coolers outdoors – one that holds adult beverages and one that holds iced water and other ageless drinks. Clearly mark each one so that the kiddos know where to go when in search of a refreshing lemonade or water!
- Citronella Candles: Elevate your gathering by creating a mosquito-free zone with oversized large pillar or jar candles. Place around your gathering space to keep everyone comfortable and allow the hang out to last into the night!
Shop These Unexpected Luxuries
Summer Entertaining Essentials: Keeping a Cozy & Convivial Summertime Atmosphere
One of our favorite outdoor entertaining #hostfulhacks is to bring the coziness of the inside out to your backyard. Don’t be afraid to incorporate throw blankets, pillows, and plenty of candles to create a warm, welcoming environment that encourages loved ones to stay a while.
Textiles: There can still be a cool breeze at night, so drape throw blankets on outdoor seating to offer guests a bit of warmth if they’d like to stay a bit later. Style pillows to create comfort and an oasis of relaxation.
Candles: While taper candles might feel formal, these candles also create a beautiful yet approachable look that casts a warm glow across your gathering. Want a candle that has a more casual feel? Style white tealights for a lowkey glow in or out of your home.
Shop APIARY Summer Entertaining Essentials
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