The Makings of a Boss Backyard Party

Summer is here, grills are heating up as the temperatures rise and we’re sharing simple ways to kick off your outdoor entertaining season with these tips and tricks for hosting and making a Boss Backyard Party!

It’s amazing how certain scents can transport you to a different time and place. The smell of a grill as it fires up inspires nostalgia right along with your meal. The scent of fresh cut grass takes you back to your younger years. The aroma of marshmallows as they begin to melt and char brings me back to the makings of the classic summer S’mores treat.

It’s summer time and our backyards are a calling. Technically here in Florida it’s basically summer ten months out of the year, but either way, it’s the season of outdoor get togethers. And for us? It’s been the season of “as many meals in our backyard in the New Year” as possible. 

If you’re like me, you enjoy the role of hostess- entertaining friends and family alike.

But also if you’re like me, sometimes you might go a little big and complex when there are times that things could be toned down. With the birth of each child, I’ve learned to pull back a little more.

Don’t get me wrong, I still love a good themed party like 4^th of July, but it’s a lot of stress and work if you want things to be perfect. I’ve learned that sometimes simple and classic is all you need to make a backyard party feel special.

Just because your aim is more simple, doesn’t mean you can’t throw a totally boss backyard party. And most times, all it takes is a few simple things to transform your yard into that comfortable place, where the best memories unfold naturally.

Like I had mentioned, with the remodel of our home, we’ve been taking to the outdoors for just about all of our meals. Family dinners (and parties!) around the grill make the planning, execution, and clean up a breeze! 

Simple Steps for a Totally Boss Backyard Party

1. Planning – When it comes to planning, for me, it comes down to two main things: the food and the atmosphere. Are we keeping it totally casual? Kid-friendly? Themed? Dressed up? Are we celebrating a holiday like Father’s Day, 4th of July, or Labor Day? Both the food we serve and the surroundings are based on this, and who our guests will be. And during the summer months, anything you can cook on the grill is a must!
2. Preparation – When it comes to the day of any get-together it’s important to keep in mind that time is going to fly; not only will you be wanting to set up everything, but you’ll have to be getting yourself and your kids ready. So I’ve found it’s better to do whatever I can in advance, whether that be making a few dishes the night before or just cutting all the vegetables and fruit… everything I can prepare ahead of time helps the day run smoothly. This applies to decorations and even outfits for my littles. The less I have to think about doing the day of the better.
3. Execution – No matter what, I want it comfortable. To throw a boss backyard party, bring the comforts you’re used to outside. Pillows, blankets, plants, candles, music… if it makes sense and you can do it, bring it outdoors to create a cozy space with items from your home. Another thing I love about outdoor entertaining is the day to night lighting! There’s sunshine by day and twinkling lights and flickering candles as the sun begins to set, creating a magical show. Take advantage of it during these summer months!
4. The Sweet Stuff – Once your cozy space is set, then fill in with food and drinks. Even the simplest of meals look more appealing and grand in a well thought out space. And just by bringing a bit of decor outside, it will feel like so much more effort went into your plans. Nothing says summer more than a backyard BBQ. But after the meal is served and the conversations wind down, you don’t want to forget the sweet stuff! The magic of S’mores can keep the gathering going. Since your grill will already be fired up, forget about the heat of the oven or cooking inside and bring America’s favorite summer treat outside! It’s why adding S’mores to the menu is a no-brainer. A cute basket with the quintessential S’mores trio at the ready shows your guests you have the perfect finale to the summer BBQ in mind… and you can cook it right over the grill, no fire needed!
5. Enjoyment– You’ve done what you can, crossed your t’s and dotted your i’s, it’s time to let go and be present. It’s time to enjoy the boss backyard party you’ve worked so hard to throw and enjoy the filling of your memory banks.

Don’t miss these Sparkling Party Punch Recipes for your next summer BBQ!

Simple outdoor table set up for a boss backyard party:

DIY Farmhouse Table
Turkish towel used as a tablecloth
Similar outdoor acrylic glasses
White lanterns
Burlap Flatware Pouches
Melamine plates
Patio lights
Countertop Ice Maker
Area Rug
Stars Pillow