How To Entertain At Home This Summer—With Style
Summer is the season of sunshine, good vibes, and great company. And what better way to celebrate the season than opening up your home to friends and family for stylish, memorable gatherings? Whether you’re planning a backyard bash, an intimate patio dinner, or a spontaneous Sunday brunch, here’s how to entertain at home this summer—with effortless flair and style.
1. Create a Signature Summer Setting
Think resort vibes meets backyard charm. Start by setting the scene. Light up your outdoor space with string lights, lanterns, or flameless candles for an inviting glow as the sun sets. Invest in cozy outdoor seating with colorful cushions, rugs, and throws to give your guests a place to relax and linger.
Style tip: Incorporate natural textures like rattan, linen, and bamboo for that breezy, elevated summer look. Fresh flowers or a bouquet of herbs in simple vases make for charming, fragrant centerpieces.
2. Serve Up a Simple Yet Sophisticated Menu
Summer entertaining calls for light, fresh, and flavorful food that doesn’t keep you tied to the kitchen. Focus on shareable platters and easy-prep recipes.
Appetizers: Charcuterie boards, hummus with veggies, shrimp cocktail, or bruschetta.
Main course: Think grilled seafood, marinated chicken skewers, gourmet burgers, or fresh pasta salads.
Desserts: Mini fruit tarts, ice cream sandwiches, or grilled peaches with honey.
Style tip: Serve food on wooden boards, ceramic platters, or mismatched vintage plates for a relaxed but chic presentation.
3. Offer a Signature Drink (or Two)
Upgrade your beverage game with a DIY drink station or a signature summer cocktail. Think fresh mojitos, sangria, or a sparkling citrus mocktail.
Style tip: Use glass dispensers or pitchers with slices of fruit and herbs. Add a decorative ice bucket, pretty glassware, and reusable straws to take it up a notch.
4. Keep Entertainment Light and Fun
Great entertainment doesn’t have to be elaborate—just intentional. Set out lawn games like Cornhole or giant Jenga, curate a summer playlist that flows with the evening, or set up a projector for an outdoor movie night.
Style tip: Create a cozy movie corner with blankets, popcorn bags, and lanterns for an Instagram-worthy setup.
5. Curate the Guest Experience
The magic is in the details. Provide thoughtful touches like bug spray in cute containers, a pitcher of infused water, or fans for hot days. Make sure there’s shade with umbrellas or a pop-up canopy if needed.
Style tip: If you want to go the extra mile, create place cards for dinner or offer a small takeaway—like a mini potted plant or jar of homemade jam.
Bottom-line
Entertaining at home this summer doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few creative touches, good food, refreshing drinks, and a stylish setup, your place can become the go-to gathering spot of the season. Keep it relaxed, focus on connection, and most importantly—enjoy yourself. Here’s to unforgettable summer moments, made right at home.
