Summer is here and that can only mean one thing…it’s time to do some outdoor entertaining!  Today I’m joining 5 of my blogging buddies for a Summer Soiree Backyard Bask and you’re invited to the party. We had a blast with the Spring Soiree virtual progressive dinner, we decided a summer blog hop was in order.

Entertaining during the summer can be so much fun and a progressive dinner makes it even better because the meal prep is spread across all the party hosts.  As you party hop, not only do you get to enjoy everyone’s decor but you also enjoy a different menu at each house.  Nothing like delicious food + stylish decor to create the perfect party atmosphere.

The menu below shows the courses and the hosts for our Summer Soiree Backyard Bash so sit back as we get this party started.

 

Summer Soiree Virtual Progressive Dinner Party

The first stop  for our progressive dinner kicks off with cocktails at my house.  When it comes to summer cocktails, I enjoy a drink that is light, refreshing and a little fruity.   Today I’m serving up a Strawberry Lemon Mojito which checks all the boxes.

So that everyone can mix and mingle in the comfort of air conditioning, I set up my cocktail bar indoors. I created a little “make and shake station” on my sideboard and used my tiered bar table to hold my blue & white ice bucket, other beverage options and glassware.

To play off the color and pattern used in the invitation, I dressed my sideboard with a blue plaid runner and yellow decor and flowers as an accent color.  I used mostly white serving pieces for a crisp pop of color and a few wicker elements to create that summer vibe.

Learn how I made the ice bucket here.

Now that I have my bar set, I want to share a few tips to help you with your party next party…

Cocktail Party Tips:

• Use the colors and theme of the party invitation as inspiration for your decor.
• Break traditional cocktail rules and Mix and match your glassware to give your party an eclectic feel.
• Include a few nibbles on the bar and around the room so guests have something to snack on and to ensure no one is drinking on an empty stomach.
• Use decorative bowls to hold drink garnish and add style to your bar.
• Frame the drink recipe so guests know what ingredients are in the signature cocktail.
• Have non-alcoholic beverages available for those guests that don’t drink alcohol.

I’m sending you off to Tamrya’s house for appetizers but before you go,  download the Strawberry Lemon Mojito Cocktail Recipe so  you can enjoy it at your next summer bash.

 

 

 

And be sure to follow the party and stop by each participating blogger for more entertaining and menu ideas…

Cocktails with ConfettiStyle (that’s me)

Appetizers with Positively Southern

Tablescape Decor with Atta Girl Says

Main Course with M. Jones Style

Dessert with Viva La Vintage For Your Home

Hostess Gift & Party Favors with Home On Poplar Creek