Summer Entertaining in Small Outdoor Spaces (continued)
Don't let small space stifle your style--follow celebrity party planner Marcy Blum's tips to host the perfect patio party
3. Keep It Rustic Chic
The juxtaposition of unexpected elegance in a funky setting is a décor trend that clearly has legs. Using ornate silver candelabra as the centerpiece for your rusted bistro table, or Baccarat crystal glasses to serve mojitos can be really mood elevating!
4. Use Freshest Ingredients
Some of the best meals of my life have been on a porch overlooking the woods in Tuscany (I'm lucky, I know). But, other than the setting, what made these meals so amazing is the exuberance of the cook in sourcing the freshest beans, tomatoes, fruits and lettuces in the market. Chopped fresh parsley and herbs placed on colorful platters accompanied by wondrous olive oil, deep purple vinegar and lots of warm foccacia make the meal seasonal heaven.
5. Add the Sounds of Nature
The power of sound is often underestimated, and while we are all well aware (ad nauseam) of the magic of programming one's iPod with a hip medley, why not expand your small outdoor space with the sounds of the great outdoors? Transport your guests to the ocean with a CD of breaking waves (I am not above having dolphins calling in my garden) or to another world with the Zen-effect of a Japanese fountain gurgling over stones.
6. Essentials to Have on Hand
Your outdoor entertaining pantry: the small but oh-so-necessary items that make all the difference
• Organic bug spray (my favorite is Burt's Bees Herbal Insect Repellant)
• Tablecloth clips
• Votive holders or hurricane lamps (to keep the candles going despite the wind) as well as candle lighters
• Citronella candles for a bug-less evening (but not around food, the odor is too pungent)
• Basket of inexpensive shawls for chilly nights
• Flip flops or Chinese slippers (for those silly enough to wear spikes)
• Sunscreen(even if it's late in the afternoon)
Marcy Blum,
Celebrity Eventiste
MarcyBlum.com
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