There’s something magical about summer in Minnesota. With warm breezes, long daylight hours, and the scent of blooming flowers in the air, it’s the perfect time to host a summer soirée where family and friends can get together to enjoy great food, drinks, and each other’s company.
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a lively bash, here’s a guide to help you host a memorable summer party at home.
Set the Scene With Stylish Decor
You know what they say: first impressions matter. The right decor can set the mood for the entire event. Start with flowers, which are a summer staple. Choose vibrant seasonal blooms such as peonies, sunflowers, and daisies, or use lush greenery like palm leaves or ferns to create a more tropical vibe. Use your chosen florals to add a pop of color to the party space, placing them in simple mason jars, elegant vases, or a show-stopping floral wall.
Consider stringing fairy lights or lanterns around your backyard or patio. They add a whimsical touch and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere as the sun sets. And don’t forget about comfortable seating! Throw pillows and blankets can turn any space into an intimate lounge area where guests can relax and chat.
Curate the Perfect Soundtrack
Music is the heartbeat of any good party. Curate a playlist that matches the desired party atmosphere. For a laid-back vibe, incorporate classic summer hits, acoustic tunes, or jazz. Want to get people dancing? Mix in some upbeat songs.
If your budget allows, hiring a live band or DJ is an excellent way to take your summer soirée to the next level. Live music adds an element of excitement and engagement, while a DJ can tailor the music to the mood of the evening and take requests from guests.
Last but not least, make sure the volume is just right. The music should be loud enough to enjoy but not so loud that guests can’t hold a conversation.
Serve Delicious, Seasonal Food
When it comes to food, think light and fresh. Offer bite-sized appetizers for guests to enjoy while mingling. For the main course, barbecue fare like gourmet burgers, marinated chicken, and veggie skewers are always crowd-pleasers. Or, for an elevated experience, consider a seafood boil or sushi station. Pair the main course with classic summer sides like corn on the cob, grilled asparagus, or watermelon and feta salad. For dessert, keep it simple yet satisfying with fruit tarts, mini cheesecakes, or a selection of ice cream and sorbets.
Provide Refreshing Beverages
No summer soirée is complete without refreshing beverages. Offer a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options to cater to all your guests. For cocktails, think mojitos, margaritas, or a fruity sangria. For non-alcoholic options, serve lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water infused with fresh fruit and herbs.
Set up a drink station where guests can help themselves. Include plenty of ice, garnishes like citrus slices and mint, and fun glassware or disposable cups to keep things festive.
Create Fun Memories
Keep your guests entertained with a mix of activities. Lawn games such as croquet, bocce ball, giant Jenga, and cornhole are great for breaking the ice while encouraging a little friendly competition among guests. Have a pool? Throw in some floats and invite guests to enjoy some water games. A photo booth with fun props can also be a hit, allowing attendees to capture memories from the night.
Wrapping Up the Night
As your summer soirée begins to wind down, be sure to thank your guests for coming and send them off with a small token of appreciation. Think mini potted plants, small bags of gourmet treats, jars of homemade jam, or candles with a summery scent.
Whether an intimate gathering or a lively bash, hosting a summer soirée is about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests can relax, socialize, and enjoy themselves. Remember, the most important thing is to relax and have fun. After all, summer is all about enjoying the moment and making lasting memories!
