In the summer, entertaining is a great way to gather your friends and enjoy seasonal food in the comfort of your backyard. Being the perfect host takes just a few entertaining rules to keep things simple and the vibe casual. From easy, hostess-ready beauty to setting a pretty table, here are a few of my tips…what are your summer entertaining musts?
{1} Set the Stage. I like to keep a selection of colorful, printed linens handy so I can just grab whatever fits my mood. Napkins are a great way to dress up white plates with ease, and don’t worry if you don’t have large quantities of the same glassware–just mix and match!
{2} Quench Thirst. While you’re likely serving cocktails to guests as they arrive, make sure to keep everyone hydrated too. I like to add lemons, limes or cucumbers to filtered water and serve it in a glass bottle, making it easy for my guests to access and giving a refreshing hint of flavor.
{3} Dress the Part. After prep work is done, escape for a few minutes to freshen up. I like to start with sun-kissed skin, created through a few applications of the Perricone MD No Sun Tanner. With a natural-looking glow as my base, a few swipes of a favorite mascara, and some powder blush mixed with the Face Finishing Moisturizer and rubbed into the apples of my cheeks, I feel polished and ready to host in no time. Be sure to check out the “cream blush” how-to video from the Perricone team here.
{4} Serve Family Style. Leverage seasonal ingredients in creating your menu, then load up platters and bowls, letting guests help themselves (and come back for seconds). This watermelon salsa is a summer favorite, perfect on top of grilled steak.
{5} Add Ambiance. Creating a warm glow with candles is my number one entertaining trick. Keep things simple with tea lights dropped into mason jars of different sizes (whatever you have in your pantry will do). Set them on the table or around your patio ahead of time, then light the candles as the sun goes down.
Lauren Craig is the founder of the lifestyle blog Perpetually Chic, where she shares her keen eye for details through globally and seasonally inspired food, fashion, travel, decor and more. Follow her blog and see more of her inspiration on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.