5 Tips for a Simple and Classy Backyard Dinner Party

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Posted: August 2020 / Updated: April 2024

Outdoor Tablescape, Wine Pour

Hey, party people! Are you thinking about hosting a backyard dinner party? Needing some tips and ideas that are chic and relaxed without it being over the top? Let’s dive into how to host a backyard dinner party that’s simple and classy. From setting the scene to the menu, we have got you covered with some tips and tricks you need to host a gathering. Grab a glass of wine and let’s get this party started!

Here are 5 Tips for a Simple and Classy Backyard Dinner Party. That will help make your next get-together easy to plan.

How to Set Up

One of my tips is to keep things simple. Take inventory of what you already have and how to use it for the dinner party. Little touches like cloth napkins, plate chargers, flowers, mason jars, and guest favors can all add beautiful details. Lighting can add a beautiful ambiance. Think outdoor candles with remote, string lights, or lanterns. Adding pillows and light blankets for when the sun goes down can add a comfy cozy touch while making sure your guests are comfortable.

Outdoor Table set up, outdoor dinner

How to Personalize Details

Making your guests feel welcome is so important. They have taken the time to show up and I always find it’s a nice personal touch when you thank your guests with a gift. Adding a personalized gift to each place setting is always a classy touch, like these mini wine bottles with customized labels.

Personalized Mini Wine Bottle

What Food to Serve

No dinner guest wants to see a host running around looking frantic. This is why food planning and preparation is very important. Having a good plan in advance will leave the dinner host as cool as a cucumber. Will it be a family-style, indoor, or outdoor buffet? Will you use the grill or will food be ready to go before guests arrive?

Typically I prefer to host family-style outdoor parties. I prepare sides and desserts the day before. On the day of, I make whatever I am serving and keep it warm in my oven until ready to serve.

Outdoor Dinner, Caprese Salad, Personalized Wine bottle

What to Drink

Once you decide on the types of food you will be serving, drinks are the next thing to plan for. Here are two refreshing recipes that are super easy to make, Popsicles and Wine OR Sparkling Sangria. Also, ALWAYS make sure to have plenty of water available along with non-alcoholic options for your guests.

Popsicles and wine

What Music To Play

Think of the mood and feel you would like to create and select your music based on that. It’s best to create a playlist of all your music several days before the party.

Bonus tips

Have bug wipes on hand so your guests can use those versus using a bug spray. I’m not a fan of bug sprays at parties since it’s hard to control the spray stream and don’t like it being used near food/drinks.

If your party is going to go into the evening hours, having light blankets if it gets chilly is always a great touch.

When it comes to desserts, think of fun ways to serve it. Like for example this tabletop s’ mores roasting station is a super cute idea for an interactive dessert.

Smores Table top

Hope this helps you with your next outdoor dinner party!

If you have any other tips or suggestions, please comment below!

Photo Credit: Banavenue Photography

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