Take It Outside: Bonus Party Tips

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.