Summertime is the perfect season for organizing and hosting outdoor parties and BBQ’s

Organizing for a party is not difficult when you know what steps to take leading up to the party date. Planning a party that will impress your guests is not that easy when you are scattered and not very organized. Wouldn’t it be fantastic to throw a party that keeps everyone talking even after years to come?

With a small bit of pre-planning, your parties will be organized, fun and easy and you can enjoy a minimal amount of stress.

Here are a few organizing tips to get ready for a fun party:

Decide what type of party makes the most sense for you and your budget

For instance, will you provide all food and beverages or do you want to ask guests to participate?

The easiest party to organize quickly is to host a potluck where you ask each guest to bring a dish to add to the table.

Or, if you have the menu planned and don’t mind cooking or catering the food, you could also ask your guests to bring their favorite beverage.

If you need to save time or money, both of these strategies will help!

Consider your venue

Is this a backyard party or will you host it off-site in a park or another setting?

Whatever location you choose you will need sufficient tables and chairs as well as a toilet facility close by.

If you choose a park, you can ask your guests to bring their own lawn chairs or picnic blankets.

You will need to make sure that you have a fold-up table to hold the food if there isn’t one on site. If you are using a park table, make sure to bring along a tablecloth to cover the surface.

Having the party in your backyard, makes it much easier to supply all of  the food, beverages and utensils.

Speaking of utensils, plastic ware saves time during cleanup but does have an adverse impact on the environment. Consider using bamboo flatware.If you want to learn more, click here.

Double check your guest list for food restrictions

Is anyone on your list on a restricted diet? If you have vegetarians or gluten-free guests, make sure to provide those options when planning your menu or at least discuss what they need before you finalize your menu.

One of my friends has such a limited list of acceptable foods that she can eat, she simply brings her own food to our parties. Whatever happens with your guest list, make sure to find out in advance of there are any allergies or food concerns that you should be aware of.

The process for creating memorable, stress-free parties gets easier as you develop your own party-hosting style. The main reason we have parties is to have fun with friends and family so ‘ stress too much. Plan a little in advance and you are on your way!

For more great tips about planning your outdoor party, click here.