Entertaining outdoors can be the perfect way to enjoy your outdoor living space with friends, family and members of your household. While it might seem more complex than indoor entertaining, knowing some best practices will help you become an outdoor entertaining expert.
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a sprawling soirée, here are some basic tips for effortless entertaining outdoors:
If you have chairs and other seating options already, consider adding cushions to make your guests more comfortable. Arrange your patio furniture in a way that promotes conversation without being cramped. When buying new furniture, consider chairs with armrests, so your guests can use them as built-in trays and cup holders.
You can keep your guests comfy even after outdoor entertaining season is long over. Have cozy throw blankets available for chilly evenings, or consider adding a fire pit to warm up winter gatherings.
When cooking for a crowd, it’s best to keep the recipes simple. Not only will this cost you less money and time, it will please a wide range of tastes. Or, for a collaborative approach, have a potluck style event where every guest is encouraged to bring a dish to share.
Don’t forget the beverages, either - consider whipping up a large batch of punch, iced tea or lemonade to easily quench the party’s thirst.
Don’t let pests ruin your outdoor fun. Have plenty of anti-bug measures available to combat buzzing and biting insects like mosquitoes. Essential oils like lavender, thyme, lemon balm and rosemary can serve as a natural deterrent against bugs while creating a fresh-scented ambiance.
Citronella candles are another smart way to battle the bugs while also improving the overall atmosphere of your outdoor parties.
Whether you’re planning an outdoor dinner party or another type of outdoor event at home, remember these best practices. With the right outdoor furniture, menu and protection from pests, your guests are sure to have a wonderful experience in your outdoor space.
Max Mitchell epitomizes integrity, energy, hard work, and creative services in every detail of your real estate transaction. With over 40 years of experience in the Champaign-Urbana area, Max has established himself as a trusted and successful real estate agent. He is proud to be a Ramsey Trusted real estate agent, providing top-notch service to his clients.
Max's sales journey began at a young age, selling The News Gazette in his neighborhood. Since then, he has worked in every aspect of the industry, representing sellers, buyers, investors, and banks in both residential and commercial markets.
As a family man, Max holds a strong devotion to God and his beautiful wife, two children, and two lovely granddaughters. He's an adventurer by nature and enjoys floating over Champaign-Urbana in his hot air balloon, often traveling to attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and other events throughout the summertime. Max also challenges himself with early morning cycling classes at Mettler Center and the YMCA, finding it a great way to recharge and connect with others.
Max's sales expertise has been shaped by renowned mentors such as Dale Carnegie, Tom Hopkins, Mike and Tom Ferry, and Brian Bufini. He believes in giving back to both the industry and the community. Max serves on the Illinois REALTORS Board of Directors, has been President of the Champaign County Associations of REALTORS, and holds a seat on the Champaign County Board in district 5. He remains active within the community, contributing his time and expertise to organizations such as Visit Champaign County Board, Champaign County Economic Development Board, and the Willard Airport Advisory Committee.
When it comes to working with Max Mitchell, you can count on five key qualities: Love, Integrity, Commitment, Passion, and FUN. With Max as your real estate agent, you can trust that your transaction will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
