Nothing says summer quite like gathering with friends and family for lunch outside! Al fresco dining is the best way to enjoy the season, whether you’re organizing a little party or a big event. Make your outdoor area an inviting space for entertaining with some creativity and practical advice. Here is all the info you need to host an amazing outdoor lunch party, from selecting delicious food items to selecting decor.
1. Selecting the Ideal Location:
When planning an outdoor lunch party, location is everything. Take into account your event size and any desired features you’d like included, then search for a space with plenty of seating. For larger gatherings, open spaces with plenty of room are ideal; on the other hand, smaller gatherings might need something cozy that creates a more intimate ambiance. Gardens or patios make excellent settings too – just ensure there is enough shade during summer days to provide respite from heat stress.
2. Crafting a Delicious Menu:
Menu planning is essential when hosting an outdoor lunch party. Start by asking your guests if any of them have any dietary restrictions so you can plan accordingly. When serving multiple courses, opt for items that are simple to prepare and store without compromising flavor. Sandwiches or wraps make great main dishes; experiment with different breads and do some research for finding the perfect italian sub ingredients! Don’t forget about side dishes either – salads and light snacks like chips & dip are ideal options for those who don’t want to stuff themselves full of heavier fare yet.
3. Crafting a Festive Atmosphere:
A great outdoor lunch party should also have an inviting atmosphere. To set the mood, add some decorations to your space. String lights and hanging lanterns create a cozy ambiance for evening events; bright colors like yellow or pink add some pizzazz to daytime events. Floral arrangements add extra charm – pick flowers that match the season for added beauty! Lastly but not least, don’t forget about music – create a summer playlist with all of your favorite songs for extra energy and excitement at your table!
4. Setting the Mood with Music:
A successful outdoor lunch party requires consideration of atmosphere, and music can help create that inviting vibe. A well-curated playlist can create a welcoming atmosphere and keep guests engaged and entertained. Depending on your event, you may choose from genres like indie or classic rock; for music everyone will enjoy, opt for upbeat pop songs or some old school summer jams!
5. Serving Up Drinks and Cocktails:
No outdoor lunch party would be complete without an array of drinks and cocktails to keep guests hydrated. Make sure there’s plenty of fresh water as well as fruity punches or lemonade available for guests who may prefer something stronger; craft signature cocktails suitable for your event with margaritas, mojitos or sangria; just remember to monitor alcohol consumption – remember: create a fun atmosphere not a night-long rave!
6. Selecting Appropriate Decorations:
When selecting decorations for an outdoor lunch party, it’s essential to consider the atmosphere and theme. Bright colors like light blues, pinks or yellows will bring life and energy to the event. You could also add floral arrangements and centerpieces for even greater charm! Ultimately though, make sure your decor reflects the season so guests feel comfortable during their stay!
7. Utilizing Portable Food Stations:
To guarantee your food stays hot and fresh during an event, set up portable food stations. Depending on space available, bring in some foldable tables as serving areas so guests can easily access meals without having to walk far. To keep things organized, label each station according to what type of food it contains – this will make finding dishes faster!
8. Thanking Guests with Gift Bags as Thanks:
As a way of showing your gratitude for everyone’s attendance at your outdoor lunch party, consider providing each guest with a small bag filled with edible treats like cookies or candies, along with unique and creative items like personalized keychains or mugs. It’s an effective way to thank people for coming and ensure they remember the experience of attending your outdoor lunch party!
The best way to spend summer days with friends and family is at outdoor luncheons. You can throw a spectacular event that leaves visitors feeling at ease and satisfied with some advance planning, preparation, and an enticing cuisine. Here are 8 key suggestions for throwing an outstanding outdoor lunch party, from choosing delectable cuisine to fostering a conversational and humorous environment.
