Milly’s birthday is a little over a month away and while I’ve had the theme and ideas running through my head for months, it’s time to start narrowing down the projects and get to work. Both of our kids have birthdays during warmer months, and I love the chance to entertain outside, so I thought today I’d share some of my favorite little tips and tricks.
Outdoor parties are usually my favorite but there are some things that make them a bit more difficult (besides the threat of weather). Keeping the food fresh can be an issue. If your kitchen opens up to the party space, try doing a buffet on the island. If the kitchen isn’t close, set up a table near the door for the main food. It’s great to have some room temperature snacks or apps outside for easy access, but this keeps bugs at bay and food temps more stable in the heat.
Think outside the box when searching for items to keep your napkin stack from blowing away. Use a rattle at a baby shower or a rope knot tying the knot at a bridal shower.
For Milly’s second birthday I painted rocks to look like strawberries and used one at each place setting.
Go beyond the boring tablecloth. This applies indoor or out – whether you go fabric or paper, consider dressing it up to match your theme. For Milly’s first birthday Micah painted an abstract check on a Target tablecloth.
And at Xander’s laboratory party I drew things you might see on a scientist’s whiteboard on butcher paper. These are simple details that didn’t take much time but add a lot of interest.
Just like indoors, it’s great to have separate stations to keep the crowd flowing. Placing drinks and food in different areas helps combat clogging and give the party a nice flow. And it doesn’t always have to sit on a table. Think about other things you may have in the above case, the bed of my father in law’s old model T that are flat and can be used in a unique way.
If the party includes kids, I am always for a kids table. The lower level and appropriate seating takes away a need for boosters and highchairs, and the relaxed atmosphere of eating al fresco allows little ones to be a bit more independent messy.
My last bit of advice would be to make sure guests know the fun is outdoors so they can dress accordingly. No one wants to be in heavy clothing on a warm evening, and if it’s an all grass affair woman don’t want to be in heels.
I know I’ve left a lot of other ideas off of this list. The season is upon us so tell me, what are some of your favorite outdoor entertaining tips?
My love of thrifting is always fun to join. Do you @ThriftWithTheMakerista?
Join Thrift Club for $35/year and follow along on on my private Instagram account; also, join the 1000s of members in the thrifting community on The Thrift Club Facebook Group and Market!
Are you shopping for a thrifter or perhaps want to splurge yourself, checkout Thrift Club merchandise.
Those parties all look so fun! I don't have anything to add to the list, but I'll certainly be putting these tips to use for my little's upcoming 3rd birthday!