The weather is finally warming up, and my absolutely favorite spot in our home is our patio. I love to share summer entertaining tips so hosts can relax and enjoy their party!
We have created an oasis with a retractable awning, comfy yet stain-resistant furniture, multi-colored throw pillows and a firepit that takes the chill out of spring evenings. The only thing we were missing? Outdoor dining pieces! Plates, cups and trays that could handle a tumble or two while still complementing our brightly-colored color scheme.
*Summer Entertaining Tips: If unsure what pattern to pick for outdoor entertaining, take a look at your pillows for a cohesive color palette.
Here is what I purchased- you can see how I love to mix and match patterns. This allows me to incorporate items from previous purchases, thrift shop deals, and even pieces that I have made (still trying to find a beginners pottery class where I can make my own Mexican Molcajete).
*Summer Entertaining Tips: Instead of purchasing everything in the same pattern, opt for different patterns in complementary colors. Stripes + Florals are a great combo!
I found this gorgeous abstract floral pattern atop a hammered effect plate. Best part? They are made of melamine, which is break-resistant. Ideal for a patio party! I added the salad plates as well to use as either kid plates or appetizer plates.
*Summer Entertaining Tips: Grab salad plates in the coordinating pattern of the dinner plates for the kids. They are easier for little hands to manage.
Want an easy summer appetizer that can double as a meal? Fish Taco Bites! Fish sticks are completely nostalgic for me, but baby- they have come a long way! I adore the ones that are Panko breaded and crisp up perfectly in the oven. SO easy to assemble and customize based upon your family and friends’ tastes.
I also discovered a new canned cocktail that pairs perfectly with these fish tacos- Dia de la Paloma! This is a mix of grapefruit, lime and tequila with a slightly effervescent consistency. You can add salt to the rim and garnish with both a grapefruit and lime wedge! This JUST came out in the Chicago market. I found highball glasses that have the same pattern as my plates, and they are top rack dishwasher safe 😉
Create a Paloma for your guests and serve in a massive beverage dispenser- there are a few available on Amazon for around $15. This recipes makes one cocktail so scale accordingly.
*Summer Entertaining Tips: Create a big batch cocktail and serve in a beverage dispenser so you aren’t stuck mixing all night- ones with a built-in label are perfect for parties.
Cheers to sunshine, cocktails and entertaining friends and family during the gorgeous summer days and sweet summer evenings!
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post on behalf of Shopko. All opinions are honest and my own as always. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you purchase through my site. It does not, however, affect your purchase price. Muchas gracias.
