You’ve waited all winter for summer to arrive and it’s finally here! Now’s the time to get out there and entertain your family, friends, and neighbors. Here are some smart summertime outdoor entertaining tips to ensure that you and your friends stay healthy and happy when entertaining outdoors.

1. Choose a venue with plenty of shade. You and your guests should easily be able to duck for cover from the sun’s harsh rays. Venues with manmade shelters or a large canopy of trees are best. Set out chairs, or even blankets and pillows in the shade so guests can relax in comfort!
2. Bring lots of water…and then some. Don’t underestimate how much water your guests will drink. It’s better to lug some extra gallons back home than to allow guests to become dehydrated.
3. Offer alcohol alternatives. Sure, it’s cool if you want to serve alcoholic beverages as long as permitting allows. Bring plenty of alternatives on hand for adults and kids alike. Some great ideas include homemade raspberry iced tea, seltzer, fruit juice and fruit-infused water.
4. Have lots of sun block on hand. All those fun outdoor activities you planned are sure to leave your guests perspiring, which requires reapplication of sun block. Set a small tub of extra bottles of sunblock so people can help themselves.
5. Supply lots and lots of ice. You’ll want the ice to keep drinks cool, too, so bring more than you think you’ll need. It will also serve as a quick way to cool down in case one of your guests gets a little overheated. Just for fun, freeze edible flowers in the ice cubes!
6. Optfor ketchup and mustard over mayo. In case you missed it, mayo is made with eggs and other ingredients. Even some commercial brands may not be safe to ingest after sitting on a picnic table in the hot sun. Hummus is another sweet spread option your guests will appreciate!
7. Wear proper foot attire. The last thing you need is a twisted ankle because you tried running a relay race in your flip flops. Bring extra footwear and be prepared to change accordingly depending on your activity. Your team will thank you, too!
8. Check the weather before confirming the date. Avoid getting caught by surprise in a less than ideal weather situation.  Prepare for unexpected bad weather and have a backup plan for extra shade or rain cover. Individually wrapped ponchos make for a stylish photo and memorable party recap ;)
9. Don’t forget the power of music! Music is an effortless way to keep the party going, you just need to pick out something entertaining and pleasant. Classics are always a good choice! It encourages guest to singing along when the song comes on- like Journey, “Just a small-town girl, living in a lonely world….” (it’s okay, I sang the words when I read it too!)
10. Provide lots of activity options. Consider setting up a few different areas at your venue so people can pick and choose what they want to participate in. Lawn games are great for all ages and its an easy way for guest to socially enjoy each other’s company.
11. Employ mosquito repellant. Mosquito bites aren't fun for anyone except the mosquito! Place a commercial mosquito repellant machines or some bug zappers around your venue. Set out a few complimentary bottles of bug spray. Little mini bottles are perfect!
12. Set up a screened tent. If you think your party might spill over into the nighttime, have a screened party tent set up. Your guests will be better protected nighttime critters and nibblers. Plus, the tent will make the party feel more cozy and intimate!
13. Keep food dishes covered with mesh tops so guests can see what’s on the menu without having to bother to lift all the lids.
14. Use covered trash bins to collect your guests’ waste. Use trash bins with hinged lids to avoid attracting insects and wildlife. The hinged lids will keep the area looking tidier and make it easier for guests to remember to flip the lid closed after using.
15. If you are entertaining outdoors consider keeping a well-lit yard, not only for safety reasons but it creates a warm ambiance and inviting atmosphere. If you have a firepit, light it up! The best memories are made around the fire.

These summertime outdoor entertaining tips will help keep you and your guests healthy and happy when entertaining outdoors. Whether it’s a family reunion at a public park or an intimate backyard barbeque, you’ll be glad you have everything covered!