Have the Right Dinnerware for your Next Patio Party

Dinnerware Should Fit the Style of Party

Everyone has fond memories of a favorite party outdoors. The summer season is great for entertaining on the patio for festive gatherings of family and friends. How do you entertain outdoors? Do you like to have fun whimsical parties or simple yet sophisticated? Are you the cook of the neighborhood at your Viking gas grill and outdoor kitchen? Do you have an inground or above ground pool so most of your parties revolve around the pool? You can have the best parties outdoors with some imagination and the right patio furniture, dinnerware and accessories. 

What are the most essential items when it comes to outdoor entertaining? Outdoor drinkware includes goblets, glasses, old fashioned glasses, margarita glasses and pitchers for water and lemonade.  The dinnerware for the outdoor party should be casual and durable plates and bowls. Make entertaining easy by using buffet style. Let everyone help themselves to the food. Even if you have an outdoor icemaker or refrigerator, keep your ice at hand by the pool with several ice buckets. Acrylic utensil caddies makes taking things back and forth so much easier and allows guests to help themselves. I prefer wax cloth placemats on tables, but other linen or laminated tablecloths are great for easy cleanup too. Don't forget about tablecloth weights in case it gets windy.  

Have hammocks hanging around the pool, and adequate patio furniture for lounging. String lanterns about when it gets dark, or pick fresh flowers from the garden to add everywhere. Games for the kids are a necessity and can include everything from croquet and badminton to water guns and sidewalk chalk. Have fun with the party and let do as much ahead of time as possible so you can enjoy your guests. Make it easy on yourself and ask for others to bring something too. Enjoy the summer and create a festive atmosphere for your guests to enjoy.