Late Summer/Early Fall Outdoor Entertaining

I know a lot of people consider Labor Day the end of summer. But there are actually still a few more weeks of summer. And even more weeks than that to enjoy the outdoors. In fact, late summer and early fall get-togethers can be some of the best of the year. You don't have to worry about a heat wave. Yummy fresh, local food is available, making recipes simple. People are looking for something to celebrate now that summer vacations are over. So now is the perfect time to have an outdoor party. Just keep in mind a few things to make it even better.

A great way to light the stairs

Because it gets dark earlier, have plenty of outdoor lighting. Bring lamps from the inside to the outdoors for the evening. Have plenty of candles in hurricanes or other protected containers that still give plenty of light. Place solar lighting in strategic locations. Make it safe for people to navigate while creating a warm ambience.

Prepare for cooler evenings. Have blankets and throws available. Set up a fire pit or a chimenea for both warmth and ambience. Invest in a heat lamp, especially if you would like to do this often.

Decorate for the season. Use apples, mums, pumpkins, acorns, leaves. Get creative and use these items for centerpieces, to hold food (hollowed out pumpkins make great soup bowls), as candle holders or as place cards.

Then relax..........and let the fun begin! And if you like these ideas, check out more on my new Pinterest board.