Best Backyard Entertaining Tips

Setting the Mood

For maximum enjoyment for you and your guests, take time to set the mood in your space. Depending on your outdoor setup, this might mean a number of things, but making your friends and family feel comfortable should be high on your list. We suggest setting up some lawn games. Cornhole and bocce make it easy for guests to have fun in an active way, and they provide opportunities for easy conversation.

Make a fun playlist—music is always a good way to set the tone—and make sure you have plenty of outdoor seating. 

If your party extends into the evening, keep in mind that it may get buggy. Certain plants contain essential oils that help deter insects. To help keep pesky bugs at bay, consider planting lavender, basil, thyme, or rosemary in your backyard space. As a bonus, you’ll have plenty of fresh herbs for salads and other dishes.

Work with the Weather!

As with any outdoor event, be sure to keep an eye on the weather. If it looks windy, consider skipping tablecloths (Highwood tables can handle messes, anyway! For unexpected spills, read about care and maintenance here). Or consider weighing them down with stones collected at the beach for a fun, summery twist. If you really want to lean into the beach theme, bowls filled with sand, pebbles, and shells make for lovely, decorative additions to your table (plus, shell-collecting can be a fun activity for kids!).

Will Memorial Day be a scorcher where you live? To keep guests cool and comfortable, buy a pack of inexpensive washcloths, roll up each cloth, and secure it with a rubber band. Then, set up an ice cooler and toss the cloths in for guests to grab. Your friends and family will thank you! 

If it will be cooler, draping cozy lap blankets on your outdoor chairs for guests to use as evening temperatures drop is a much-appreciated gesture. And like our deep seating, it will encourage friends and family to linger.

Food & Libations

Let the weather help you determine your menu. For warmer temperatures, keep things light and simple with pasta and potato salads, green salads that use fresh ingredients (how are those herbs coming along?), and cold dips with veggies and pitas. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with ice cream and classic chocolate-chip cookies, or fill a small cooler with popsicles—an easy and beloved summer treat.

Keep guests refreshed with sparkling drinks, homemade juices, or lemonade. (If you’re making your own lemonade, add plenty of lemon slices and a sprig of mint for garnish.)

If it’s cooler, opt for rich or warming foods, such as soups or hot dips. Warm baked brie is a true party treat, but beware—it will be gone in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes an outdoor gathering more enjoyable for guests?

Successful entertaining begins with thoughtful planning. Comfortable seating, easy conversation areas, convenient serving surfaces, and good traffic flow help guests feel welcome while allowing the host to enjoy the event as much as everyone else.

How should furniture be arranged for entertaining outdoors?

Arrange seating to encourage conversation while maintaining clear pathways between dining, serving, and relaxation areas. Grouping furniture into functional zones helps larger gatherings feel organized without making the space feel crowded.

What additions can make a backyard feel more inviting for social occasions?

Layering in ambient lighting, planters, outdoor rugs, shade features, and decorative accessories creates warmth and visual interest. Small details often have the biggest impact on making guests feel comfortable and encouraging them to stay longer.

How do durable outdoor furnishings support frequent entertaining?

Furniture designed for year-round outdoor use provides dependable performance through changing weather and regular gatherings. Low-maintenance materials make cleanup easier and allow homeowners to spend more time enjoying guests instead of maintaining their outdoor space.