Plan Ahead for the Best Patio Party

There’s no better way to jump start the summer than with a party on your patio or outdoor area. Make sure your next gathering goes off without a hitch, with our best tips.
 

The Month Before

Invite Guests
Give friends and family enough of a heads-up to make appropriate plans and let you know if they can make it. Whether you prefer to send a text, email, or snail mail, include pertinent information like what time to show up, how long the party will last, and what to bring (like attire, pool towels, or their famous seven-layer dip).

Tip! Will the party go on, rain or shine? Let guests know! Leave the surprises for who ends up having the best moves on the dance floor.

Make a List
Get as many supplies you need ahead of time. We love a good shopping list, and there are likely many items that you can stock up on now, including condiments, bug spray, sunscreen, charcoal for the grill, extra chairs, and coolers.

The Day Before

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Clean Up and Set Up
Mow the lawn, hose off furniture, and set up tables and chairs. Weather permitting, you can also bring out umbrellas, lighting, and coolers. If you find any standing water in planters, or on furniture, be sure to dump it for help get rid of mosquitoes. 

Fine Tune the Music 
Make a playlist so the tunes are ready to go when the party starts—and if you have wireless speakers, charge them. (Don’t have one yet? The Bose® SoundLink® Bluetooth® Mini speaker II has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 10 hours). Music helps people relax, but finding the optimal volume is easier said than done. People often blast music too loud, making it impossible for guests to have a conversation, but this little speaker packs a surprisingly clear punch without being too loud.  

Tip! If the party heads inside from the patio, you can easily grab the speaker (it fits in your hand and weighs only one and a half pounds) or turn up the beat—it has a range of 30 feet!

The Day of the Party

Help Yourself  
In hot weather, steer clear of foods that are too greasy or heavy. Stick to a few easy recipes that offer something for everyone. One of the easiest (and most crowd-pleasing) meals for patio parties is a collection of grilled burgers, hot dogs, and vegetables with a side dish or two. You’ll have minimal prep work and cleanup, and if guests show up late or want seconds it is easy enough to reheat food.

Tip! If citronella candles aren't cutting it, a fan and mesh covers help keep the bugs away from food. 

Cheers to Summer
Set up a few coolers and ice buckets in various spots around your patio, and fill with ice before the party starts. This way drinks are icy cold when guests arrive and people don't cluster around one spot the whole time.

Tip! Designate a specific cooler for non-alcoholic drinks so guests know where to look for water, soda, and beverages for this kids, too.