Outdoor Party Ideas

Can't you feel the collective sigh as the fresh, warm breezes blow in. I am so thankful for the sun and warmth and it makes me want to do everything outside. So why not move your entertaining outside as well? Keep it casual and relaxed (that means for the host/hostess as well!).

Here's a few ideas to tryout:
1. Girls Night Out on the Patio - Lettuce wraps, grilled veggies, decadent dessert, and a rose champagne such as Laurent-Perrier. Let the good times roll!
2. Family Fun - After a long day on the soccer fields (or whatever your children's activity of choice) it is great to grab a few families and have them stop by the house. Make it a potluck dinner, setup a chocolate fountain with plenty of goodies to dip. Light the fire pit for the adults to gather around with plenty of wine to sample, have a trampoline or some simple outdoor games available to keep the kids busy. (I also recommend renting a bouncy and hiring a local teen if you really want to entertain the little ones!!!)
3. Sports and Dinner - Who says kids get to have all the sports fun? Invite a few friends for a late afternoon game of tennis or golf followed by a simple dinner of grilled salmon and asparagus, rice and great salad (I love some of the recipes from Barefoot Contessa) and a light, fruity dessert. Keep the martinis flowing!
4. Pizza and Wii - Set up a do-it-yourself pizza bar with Boboli Crusts, pizza sauce, cheese and a variety of toppings, a selection of beers from your local brewery, and a cooler of fun and unusual bottled soda pops for the kids. Then take the fun inside as the adults take on the kids in Wii sports or the boys against the girls, etc........ You will have a hard time getting everyone to leave!

Happy Spring to All!
Take Care,
Barb