Surefire Ways to Throw a Successful Summer Soirée

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Summer is known for being a season to spend time with friends and family outdoors. While DC’s heat can hinder the ability to host a comfortable outdoor party, there are ways to take advantage of the weather and have a successful, outdoor bash.

·      Spice up your outdoor décor and create a festive table

1.     Tablecloths ~ Outdoor furniture often succumbs to the elements. Keep your table looking fresh and festive with a tablecloth that complements your party’s color scheme. Even a burlap table runner can add enough to create a more organic feel.

2.     Napkins ~ If you utilize a plain tablecloth, go for a printed napkin, or vice versa. Save money with disposable napkins that will add a pop of color to your table.

3.     Lights ~ Although the sun stays out in the summer, string lights are practical and can also be a fun decoration you can leave up year round.

4.     Flowers ~ Bright, fresh flowers are an easy way to really tie together your party table. Summer is also the perfect time to bring out succulents. Use a traditional vase and tie a ribbon around it, or go for a more natural look with a metal container or mason jar.

 

·      Food and Drink

1.   Hors d'ouvres  ~ skewers are a great way to make aesthetically appealing, mess-free food. Tomato, mozzarella, basil, and prosciutto on a stick is not only delicious, but looks pretty! Chicken, onions, and peppers on a skewer is a more substantial horderve that would be great if you’re only hosting a cocktail party.

2.     Dinner ~ keep it easy! Fire up the BBQ and serve family style. If you’re willing to splurge, catering your dinner can relieve a lot of stress.

3.     Drinks ~ A signature cocktail is a must! Add fun, patterned straws and a fruit slice. Be sure to provide beer and wine for guests who want to avoid hard liquor. Check out these recipes below:

 

Watermelon Mojito

Ingredients:

  • 4 large mint leaves
  • ½  lime
  • 1 tablespoon superfine sugar
  • 4 ounces seedless watermelon, cut into ½-inch cubes (about ¾ cup), plus a small wedge for garnish
  • 2 ounces white rum
  • ½ cup ice cubes

In a glass, add mint, lime juice, and sugar and crush with a muddler (or the back of a spoon). Then add watermelon and continue to crush. Pour the rum over the mixture and add ice. Garnish with a small watermelon wedge and serve.

Vodka Raspberry Lemonade

Ingredients:

  • 1  1/2 ounces vodka (preferably citrus flavored)
  • 5 fresh raspberries
  • 4 ounces lemonade (preferably fresh-squeezed)
  •  1 teaspoon sugar

In a glass, add mint, lime juice, and sugar and crush with a muddler (or the back of a spoon). Then add watermelon and continue to crush. Pour the rum over the mixture and add ice. Garnish with a small watermelon wedge and serve.