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
Marsha says
Shelly my friend, a mojito is my favorite cocktail outside of a glass of wine. I’ll be making this recipe. Then you styled the help yourself bar area to perfection. Lovely post.
ConfettiStyle says
Thanks so much my friend. Can’t wait to have a sip with you in person in a few weeks.
Ola says
I love what you’ve done here! I’m horrible at setting up a bar so I’ll definitely be using these tips.
ConfettiStyle says
Thanks so much Ola. I’m so glad you found the tips helpful and inspiring. Happy entertaining.
Shelly
Amy Buchanan (@AttaGirlSays) says
Mojitos are one of my favorite summer cocktails, and I can’t wait to try your version. Thanks again for organizing our progressive dinner. It’s so much fun to share hosting duties with you ladies.
If I were visiting you IRL, I don’t think I’d want to leave. I’d be too busy shopping all your beautiful treasures in your home.
ConfettiStyle says
Thanks so much Amy. You’re welcome to stop by anytime you in the ATL. Cheers!
Jamala Wallace says
This is a perfect setup to get the party started! You are truly for hostess with the mostest.. I could see me guzzling this down and wanting more.. lol… but seriously you really hooked it up! Btw.. ..the DIY offer bucket is a charmer and ..i’m loving the lamp on your console! I look forward to more fun events!
ConfettiStyle says
Thanks Jamala. I so love my ice bucket too! It’s one of my favorite DIY’s ever.
Hope to see you soon.
Tamyra says
Such a refreshing set up you have! All those blackberries…YUM!!! Your bar cart is a piece I absolutely adore. I could use that in almost every room in my house! #goals
ConfettiStyle says
Thanks Tamyra. Hoping we can share a cocktail together soon.
Shelly
Nancy says
What a fun party! Thanks for the cocktail and the recipe as well! I’m off to the next house!
I’ll be back as thiscwasvso fun and enjoyed your hospitality!
ConfettiStyle says
Thanks so much Nancy. So glad you stopped by the blog hop and enjoyed it.
Cheers!