June is here and many people are planning on celebrating several things like graduations, weddings, birthdays, or just the start of summer. There does not even have to be a reason to celebrate but simply one to reconnect with friends and family on a beautiful summer evening. Many people enjoy entertaining outdoors after being cooped up inside all of those cold Winter months. It is also a way for many people to have a bigger party with more space to accommodate more people. This article with discuss how to plan for an outdoor summer party whether it is a small casual barbecue or a more elaborate garden themed party celebrating a special event. It will touch on a sillier theme like "Everything on a Stick" where everything edible comes on a stick or rustic Italian menu where Frantoia olive oil will be widely used and beautiful desserts using fruit syrup are
served.

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Let's plan a smaller, more simple type of party outdoors. This could be for up to 8-10 people. The more food preparation you can do ahead of time, the more you can relax and enjoy your own party. If you do not have an outdoor seating area this may be an ideal time to purchase some as many stores are having huge blowout sales. Fresh flowers really make a table beautiful for the summer and many can be cut right from your garden. Crisp white table linens always look great for a summer party offset by colorful flowers.

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Now, for the planning for the menu. Summer time is wonderful because so much of it can be simple and fresh ingredients and be so delicious. The more seasonal it is the better it will taste. Let's do the fun "On a Stick Theme" for your party. This is a play on all of those summer festivals and carnivals that are going on but in a much more healthy menu. A beautiful appetizer could be marinated mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes and basil leaves on a wooden stick alternating the items. It is simple, looks great and is a delicious appetizer.

The main course can also be simple items that are served on a stick after they are grilled. You can do a variety of kabobs such as a chicken satay with peanut sauce and a grilled vegetable kabob too with corn, peppers, mushrooms and onions. A simple side of rice can round out the main meal. For dessert, serve a spin on the traditional s'mores with roasted marshmallows, chocolate kisses and animal crackers all on a stick. It is fun and yummy at the same time. For beverages, people often enjoy something fun to drink in the summer. Margaritas or mojitos are a refreshing drink during the warm weather or a light white wine is always good. Always offer water and non-alcoholic options as well for your guests. To finish it off, candles or even tiki torches make the mood outdoors fun or perhaps small twinkling lights in a tree or attached to a canopy are an easy and delightful touch.

How to Plan a Great Outdoor Dinner Party

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