The Dos And Don'ts Of Outdoor Entertaining

With the temperature rising, the flowers blooming, and the sweet smell of smoking grills wafting through the air, it's officially time to start reveling in the better weather. For lucky enough to have summer birthdays, avid grill masters, and warm weather lovers, entertaining outdoors is a given. And why wouldn't you celebrate outside? Outdoor entertaining is simple, relaxing, and usually quite delicious.

The Dos and Don'ts of Outdoor Entertaining

However, for folks just dipping their toes into the outdoor entertaining pool, there is a lot to learn about hosting a successful open-air soirée. Backyard parties are nothing like the get-togethers you plan indoors. Outside, there are a lot more variables to consider: factors that range from obvious worries like weather to less identifiable concerns like protecting your guests from sun and bugs.

To help you host your first successful outdoor event, we've pulled together a list of dos and don'ts that will serve as a great guide for any type of party. Be sure that you are prepared to make it the best time ever by following these tips!

DO: Clean Up Outside!

Throwing an event outside is pretty easy-breezy in the clean-up department, but that doesn't mean that you should let your outdoors stay unkempt. Be sure you clean your grill, sweep rogue leaves and flowers off of your seating area, and check that linens on patio furniture are fresh, dry, and safe for guests to sit on.

DON'T: Forger to Decorate

Sure, the great outdoors are picturesque, but that doesn't mean that you can slack off on your decorating! Spruce up your picnic table with fresh spring flowers or simply drape rows of beautiful outdoor lighting to make your backyard magical.