It’s finally time to plan our annual neighborhood spring party! (Woo Hoo!) We’ve been stuck inside all winter long and I’ve missed hanging out with our neighbors. While our spring party is totally kid-friendly (complete with a bounce house castle), sometimes I like to dream about planning a grown up party. But for now, we’re just thrilled to get the kids (and parents) outside and jumping!
When decorating for your patio party, less is more! Pick one or two splashy ideas, but let the food and guests take center stage. This is not a time for clutter
(remember, you have to clean up at the end). Here are three approaches:
This first one is a classic with a cream tablecloth, white dishes and fabulous hurricane lantern. With such a neutral palate, the food is sure to take center stage. It’s a bit formal, but relaxed at the same time. Just make sure you serve food that is colorful! LOL
I love the rustic ambiance of this natural setting. The weathered wood makes a nice earthy contrast to the traditional white napkins. The simple white flowers soften the look, and no one needs to worry about spilling the red wine on a white tablecloth. This is great for a casual setting. Lobster anyone?
Looking for something more colorful? Go crazy with layered placemats and plates! The centerpieces are adorable (although I can’t help but think they resemble the artichoke appetizer a little too much!) This is a great example of how even with plastic ware, you can make an impact!
And finally, here are a few random tips for outdoor entertaining with kids:
Get out your “summer bucket” (wipes, tissues, band aids, bug spray, etc) so guests can take care of their kids quickly.- Have a piñata. You don’t need to have a reason; you just need to have a fun activity for kids that involves candy and a big stick. It’s all good!
- Balloons are an inexpensive way to infuse color, just make sure there is at least one per kid to take home.
Bottom line – keep it simple and have fun (your guests will follow your lead).
So when is your next outdoor entertaining event? Tell me about how your planning it! I’m always looking for new ideas!
Update: I just now realized that our party is on Kentucky Derby day! Any suggestions for incorporating that theme into it?
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Hello! Poppin’ in from The Ultimate Blog Party…all the way from Queensland, Australia! G’Day! I hope you have time to visit my party soon.
I’m giving away Pink Champagne Shower Syrup from Jaqua Beauty…stop on over and enter! Ends April 8. Open to USA.
Ta!
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Thanks Laura!
Elizabeth – I used to live in Ohio…Go Bucks! And yes, spring will come soon!
I love an outdoor party. Someday spring will arrive in Ohio and I’ll be back in business! Thanks for the reminder 🙂
elizabeth’s last blog post..I am SO not Ma Ingalls
Great ideas!
Laura Ingalls Gunn’s last blog post..Friday Freebie
Hi Ms. Tee – I think food actually tastes better outside!
Julia – I agree! It’s easier to clean up outside too! 😉
Jenn – It’s great b/c no parking issues!
Jenny – What a cute b-day theme!
Susan
I just went to a great party tonight. It was an “Under the Sea” 1st birthday party. My cousins did a great job on the decor! It was a lot of fun.
Jenny’s last blog post..St. Louis Homeschool Expo
How fun! I love neighborhood parties! Miss those things!
Jenn aka Future Mama’s last blog post..The Hurt Feelings
I can’t wait to have some outdoor parties–those are the most fun, in my opinion! Great tips. Hope you’re having a good weekend! 🙂
Julia @ Hooked on Houses’s last blog post..Hooked on Shannon Bowers’ Swedish Style
I love to eat outside – these are all great ideas. Thank you!
Hi Pam – I am so jealous that you live on the coast! 🙂 Good point about balloons – keep ’em tied securely!
Great ideas Christine! Giddyup!
I can’t wait for it to be warm enough to have guests over for an outdoor party! Great ideas!
As a Kentuckian I would suggest big ol’ hats, Mint Julep’s, and roses for the Kentucky Derby themed party.
Christine’s last blog post..Do You Have One Hour?
Great ideas. The only one I might be in disagreement with are the balloons. At the coast where I live, you wouldn’t believe how many deflated balloons are found in our coastal waters. Sea Turtles, dolphins and other wildlife can easily die from ingesting them. They have been outlawed at Wrightsville Beach, NC. They are great and fun, we just need to make sure they don’t get away!
Pam Kersting’s last blog post..Outdoor Rooms for Living
Love your blog. So glad that I stopped by.
Hope you will stop by my blog for a visit. I am new to blogging and I am loving all my new friends.
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Hi just stopping by from the blog party a little late. Great party ideas! A neighborhood Spring party sounds like a lot of fun.
Beachcomber’s last blog post..2009 Pinewood Derby
you have a great site love the party ideas….
Happy UBP!!!
Pamela’s last blog post..WORDLESS WEDNESDAY/FIRST TIME AT THE OCEAN
Hi Prontip – Ahhh, I see your dilemma is whether or not (and how) to gain design concensus from hubby! Check out https://yourhomeonlybetter.com/staging1/can-you-negotiate-a-good-design/ for a few tacical ideas that might help! 😉
I love home blogging! As a matter of fact I’m running a poll at my blog about a decor dilemma I’m having. If you have time, pop over and vote!
BTW, I found you on the UBP list!
Prontip’s last blog post..Off topic.
I would NEVER miss a good party!
great site, glad you made it to the party!
ashley’s last blog post..Wednesday 4 WE….yes that means you! (and me)