top of page

Outdoor Entertaining in Style: Curating the Ultimate Summer Soirée Setup


Entertaining al fresco sure is a hallmark of summer. But planning it can be challenging! Not taking care of certain factors, like protection from the sun and pests, can make the experience less than fun for guests. That’s why planning ahead is so important.


Luckily, there are quite a few ways to elevate your outdoor entertaining setup so it’s comfy for your guests as well as low-stress for you. For example, if your backyard has mosquitos, you can display a few citronella candles to keep the bugs at bay. Or if you’re hosting on a hot summer day, you can set out a few umbrellas and provide shade.  


In this blog post, we’ll talk all about outdoor entertaining in style, so you can prep the ultimate summer soiree setup.


Go For a Thoughtful Layout



Start with the flow of your outdoor space, that is, think about how guests will move around it. From sipping on a refreshing drink to finding a seat, to serving themselves from a grazing board, everything should be aligned for convenience. Create pockets for mingling and dining accordingly. Like:

  • A shaded lounge zone with floor cushions

  • A long table with comfy seating

  • A lawn game area

  • A fire pit for later in the night


Lay an Outdoor Rug


If you have a pool in your yard, guests will likely be walking around without shoes. Keep their feet comfy by laying out a rug on your deck or patio. Bring the indoors outside and carve out an area of your yard for lounging by laying down an outdoor rug. Ideally, this would be somewhere near your umbrella or a shady tree.


Price: $39 to $359 (depending on the size)


We’re huge fans of this outdoor rug by Fifth Room. It has a beautiful outdoorsy pattern but sticks to a neutral color palette, making it a versatile choice for different outdoor styles. If you expect things to get wet around here, you can add on a non-skid pad (for $99) to make sure the rug stays in place.


Choose a Summer-Friendly Theme


Color really sets the tone. Think soft pastels, breezy whites, and earthy neutrals. These channel sophistication in your outdoor space. Simultaneously, bold Mediterranean hues can bring energy and joy. Simply choose a theme and then carry it across linens, dinnerware, florals, and even your menu!


No matter what the theme you choose, always go big on textures. Like rattan placemats with linen napkins, and add on ceramic serveware.



Here are a few outdoor themes you can choose from:

  • Coastal retreat. Lay down a whitewashed wooden floor for your patio. Use cushions with navy stripes. Hang lanterns using ropes.

  • Mediterranean escape. Use cobalt blue to anchor the color theme. Add an olive tree in a terracotta pot. Bougainvillea plants also look stunning!

  • Boho garden. Layer textures and mix eclectic patterns. For the seating, hang a macrame swing and use floor cushions. 

  • English garden party. This is romantic and lush. Use wicker furniture and floral fabrics for the upholstery. Add on string lights for a whimsical touch.



Add a Porch Swing


Outdoor furniture that serves more purposes than one is ideal for al fresco entertaining. This outdoor porch swing doesn’t just provide extra seating for guests, it also features a canopy that will protect them from the sun.


Price: $230

Shop: Homrest


You can find this porch swing in different colors, including wine red, blue, and brown. We love the beige for the versatility it offers, but you can always make a bolder choice.


Use a Mosquito Coil


Keep mosquitos away from your outdoor dining setup (but without disrupting its aesthetic) by hanging citronella coils. We’ve featured a suitable option from Crate and Barrel below.




Price: $18


The compressed wood of this coil burns slowly and elegantly. Through the process, it releases fragrances of essential oils as they smolder. So you’ll get a beautiful scent, all while keeping the pests at bay.


Create a Seasonal Menu


The best summer menu should be flavorful, fresh, and fuss-free with some of the best summer entertaining recipes. Think: grilled peaches with burrata, colorful caprese skewers, citrus-marinated chicken, or a big rustic tart. Pair with your favorite drinks served in clear pitchers + herb and fruit garnishes. 


While you’re at it, also think about the dishes you’ll be using. We mean, no one wants to worry about fine china during a casual event. You can avoid this by serving food on shatterproof dishes.


Price: $12


Consider these melamine plates, which are break-resistant. They’ll make a statement on the table (plus point: they’re actual plates, instead of disposable pieces that appear a little too casual for an outdoor event) while being safe even if they’re accidentally dropped. You can find pieces for the entire set on Anthropologie.


Also, for small bites, like chips, crudite, and dips, a lazy susan will come in handy (so guests don’t have to reach across the table for their appetizers).




Shop: $138


Use this lazy susan by Pottery Barn. Your guests can simply spin the rotating tray and take what they want.


Consider a Daybed


An outdoor bed instantly elevates your summer soiree with resort-style comfort. Dressed in soft linens, it creates a dreamy spot for guests to unwind, sip on drinks, or chat under the stars. Place it under a pergola, add a tray with fresh fruit, and you’ve got the ultimate lounge moment.




Price: $3,490


This daybed by House of Leon is incredibly comfortable and chic. Placing it by the poolside adds a sense of luxury to the space.


Provide Shade but with Style


No summer soiree is complete without stylish shade—and an umbrella can deliver just that. We recommend this piece by Frontera, with a sleek and cantilevered design and expansive canopy. It provides ample coverage, but without cluttering the setup.




Price: $2,869

Shop: Frontera


Crafted with a durable frame and high-end finishes, this umbrella brings resort-level luxury to your backyard. You can choose from 4 different finishes.


Add Some Warmth


When you’re entertaining, it’s always a good idea to gather around a fire, roast marshmallows, and share stories—especially when the sun goes down.


Price: $700

Shop: Homary


Take your summer evenings up a notch with this outdoor fire pit. It features a modern gray and white finish, which makes a statement in modern patios. You can expect a cozy ambiance without the mess of smoke. Perfect for poolside lounging or patio setups, its clean lines and functional shelf space blend beautifully into any outdoor aesthetic.


bottom of page