How to Host the Perfect Summer Party

Before you start planning the details, consider a theme for your party. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Tuscan Villa: Transport your guests to Italy with warm colors, vintage decor, and classic Italian cuisine. Think twinkling string lights, vintage wine barrels, and plenty of fresh basil.
• Coastal Chic: Bring the beach party to your backyard with nautical accents, fresh seafood, and refreshing cocktails. Consider a color palette of blues and whites, with plenty of natural textures like wicker or jute.
• A Midsummer Night's Dream: Create a whimsical and romantic atmosphere with soft lighting, lush greenery, and plenty of flowers. With finishing touches like lanterns, flower crowns, and a playlist full of indie folk music.
• Garden Party: Simple, elegant, and refined, a garden party makes the perfect outdoor summer party theme. Emphasize fresh flowers and greenery with refined cocktails and a color scheme of soft pastels complemented by mismatched plates, cutlery, and glassware. 

The food is often the highlight of any summer party. Here are some ideas to impress your guests:

• Grilled Delights : Grilled peaches, prosciutto, and arugula make for a sweet and savory combination. Try pairing it with refreshing summer greens, like a watermelon and feta salad.
• Seafood Paella  is a classic Spanish dish perfect for a summer evening. To round out the menu, consider adding some seafood skewers or grilled shrimp.
• Bruschetta : Fresh tomatoes, basil, and burrata cheese on toasted baguette slices make for a simple but elegant appetizer that almost everyone loves.
• Frozen Treats : Ice cream sandwiches, popsicles, and fruit smoothies are all perfect for hot summer days. Consider setting up a DIY ice cream sundae bar with plenty of toppings.

No summer party is complete without an activity. Here are some ideas for fun games:

• Croquet: A classic outdoor game perfect for a summer afternoon. Consider setting up a few different stations, like a ring toss or a giant Jenga game.
• Wine and Cheese Pairing: Test your guests' knowledge of wine and cheese combinations. Consider setting up a few different stations, each with a different wine and cheese pairing.
• Garden Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items to find in your garden or outdoor space. Consider adding some fun prizes for the winners.
• Summer Playlist: Create a playlist full of upbeat music to keep the party going. Consider adding some fun outdoor activities, like a bonfire and s'mores.