Summer Entertaining Ideas

 We’ll it seems that the summer party season is in full swing. 

When it comes to decorating for an outdoor event I love to go a bit over the top and incorporate unique, creative and bold elements into my decor or tablescape.  Here are a few of my favorite party ideas to inspire your summer festivities.  Enjoy!

 

via elizabethannedesigns

Bicycles are an icon of summer and can serve as a dynamic decorating element for an outdoor event. Just tie or wire a basket onto the front of the bike, add flowers are you’re set.  This is a great look to set out at the front of the house to welcome guest or at the edge of the backyard to your guest to stroll the property.

via country living

Fans are a true Southern touch at any outdoor event. 

You can purchase inexpensive paper or straw fans from Oriental Trading Co. or make your own following the instructions here.

via country living

I love to have a small gift for my guest and during the summer, a flower packet it the perfect item.  Inexpensive, festive and colorful.  Write the guests’ name at the top of the packet and use them as placecard markers.

via country living

If you’re looking for a cheap, but colorful table runner, try stitching a few bandanas together.  Available at most craft stores for $0.99 or less.

via house beautiful

And to make an even bigger impact with bandanas, use them as napkins.

via country living

Free and Easy.  Spray paint a few leftover veggie or soup cans and use them as silverware caddie.  They also make  perfect flower vases too!

via delight by design

If you are at all crafty, make a paper pennant banner and string it above your party table.  Inexpensive scrapbook paper, ribbon and double side tape is all it takes.  I’ll be making a few of these for our upcoming 4th of July family reunion.

via country living

Paper lanterns aren’t just for hanging in the air.  Place a glass vase inside one and use it as a festive flower container.  Try pairing different sizes together down the center of the table.

 

via Martha Stewart

Wrap votive candles with beautiful pleated paper shades.  How-to instructions here.

via Martha Stewart.com

Decorative Paper Lanterns, in colors to coordinate with your decor are bold and beautiful!For complete how-to instructions go here.

via buss buss

Pom Poms are a great way to add color, texture and style to your summer party.  A wonderful array of colors and sizes is available at the Etsy shop, Pomtastic, here!

 

via country living

Create unique individual servings by placing salads or fruit in small glass containers or paper pockets (below).

via Martha Stewart

Whatever your party plans are this summer, make them festive and have fun!

Cheers!