Entertain with Ease in the Summer Heat

Whenever summer is mentioned, most people think about relaxing somewhere by a pool, having a backyard BBQ or heading out on a family vacation. 

Living in the south during the middle of summer is sometimes a different story. If we don’t have access to a pool or boat, we try to think of ways we can stay inside during the days in an attempt to avoid the unbearably hot weather, not to mention the pesky mosquitos, too. 

Nevertheless, we need the Vitamin D right?! It’s hard to stay cooped up inside all summer, so here’s a few ways to help you entertain with ease outdoors in the south this summer! 

Timing is Everything! 

Be strategic when planning events outside during the summer months. Schedule your outdoor gatherings to start early morning like a Beach Bum Brunch or later in the evening, starting an hour or so before sunset to avoid heat exhaustion. If you decide to host a party while the sun is out in full force, it’s a good idea to have water activities available, as well as  plenty of seating such as hammocks, swings & rocking chairs for your guests to rest and hydrate.   

Party Prepping 

Prep your outdoor area for pests beforehand.  Bugs love high grass! Get the yard mowed a day or so before the party starts to not only keep the bugs at bay, but to give your yard some time to be rid of the loose grass that can track inside your home or in unwanted areas. To control the mosquitos, try tiki table torches with the tiki bitefighter fuel for a stylish option on your patio or all around the area where your guests will be You may also want to think about installing a screened in porch or an outdoor roller blind.  These will not only help reduce the temperature, but will also keep the flies and mosquitoes from taking over your party. Find these adorable tiki table torches here.   

Keep cool 

Install a portable tent or canopy for additional shaded areas in your yard for guests to enjoy.  Almost everyone knows to use outdoor fans to help cool off, but installing an outdoor misting system to an open patio would be the icing on the cake! They are affordable, easy to install and, of course, very enjoyable for a summer day in the south!  If you do have outdoor ceiling fans, remember to switch them to rotate counterclockwise in the summer so that the air is blowing downwards, giving you the cool breeze you need. Get that extra cool breeze on your patio here.   

Relief Stations 

A beverage station can only go so far in the middle of summer, so instead set up a “Relief Station” for you and your guests.  You can include things such as portable fans, bug spray or bug bands, sunscreen, frozen towels, lots of snacks (individually wrapped to keep bugs at bay), and of course a bucket or cooler with lots of ice and drinks to stay hydrated. This can completely change the vibe of your party, as your guests will have all the essentials they need to keep their “party mode” on, especially since these are items that your guests wouldn’t think to bring with them but will surely be appreciated when the heat begins to get to them! And most of all, remember to have fun this summer! Keep some waterproof speakers on hand, too, for good jams that your guests will enjoy.

-Written by our Design Coordinator, Kristin Tucker