• Clean your deck or patio and make sure the lawn is mowed.
  • Create shady areas by setting up umbrellas or pitching open-walled tents.
  • Serve easy, make-ahead foods that won’t keep you in the kitchen while your guests are outdoors. Or grill outside.
  • Have a “make-your-own” kabob, burger or taco buffet to keep your work to a minimum.
  • Be prepared. Stock up on insect repellent, sunblock and extra coats or sweaters in case it gets chilly.
  • Make sure there are enough seating and standing areas for dinner and after-dinner conversation.
  • If you’ll be partying late, light up the night with string lights or Chinese lanterns hanging from the trees. Tiki torches provide great mood lighting and repel pesky mosquitoes.
  • Keep it fun with games like croquet or lawn bowling (bocce ball). Don’t forget games for the kids, such as sack races or a water balloon toss.
  • Crank the tunes! Hire a musician for an hour or two, or use a CD player. Remember to include a variety of music.