With the warm weather having settled in and communities opening back up, it’s the perfect time to gather your friends, family, and loved ones to celebrate the Fourth of July season with a summer outdoor party. The key to having a carefree summer outdoor party is to get your guests involved when it comes to food preparation. If you’re the host, make sure your backyard has ample space to fit all your guests. In today’s list of top recommendations, we’ve rounded up party seating essentials for your backyard, Fourth of July decor, and other celebratory items you’ll need for a memorable summer outdoor party this festive Independence Day and beyond.
Summer Outdoor Party Tips for Seating Guests
1. Grab some foldable chairs that you can easily take from storage to the backyard in no time.
Unexpected guests arriving at your summer outdoor party? Don’t sweat the seating because the Plow & Hearth Eucalyptus Wood Outdoor Bistro Furniture has got you covered. It features a classic slatted design that looks great and goes with any setting, from patio and porch to deck, balcony and beyond. This sleek and sturdy set features folding chairs that are comfortable to relax in and are super easy to tote around and store when you’re done. The Bistro Table on the other hand is great for al fresco dining, coffee, or cocktails. This set is so versatile you can use it as is or in individual pieces. Each piece is made from FSC-certified eucalyptus wood and features a rich, attractive finish that protects the wood and enhances its grain. It also features a classic slatted design that works well with any decor. Shop at Plow & Hearth.
2. Use an outdoor bar cart to pack your entertaining essentials, from utensils to cocktails, snacks, and more.
When hosting a summer outdoor party, you will need lots of mobility. To ensure you can easily reposition essentials and transport them from indoors to outdoors in no time, make sure you have the Claremont Eucalyptus Rolling Outdoor Bar Cart in Natural, a sturdy piece of furniture that had undergone extensive finishing to give it a rich, handsome look that your guests will truly appreciate. It is expertly crafted from solid eucalyptus wood paired with galvanized steel hardware, and is equipped with a removable serving tray, ice bucket and bottle holder, and a stemware storage rack. It’s everything you need to entertain and feed guests at your summer outdoor party. Shop at Plow & Hearth.
3. Have a cozy space where guests can relax and enjoy good food while catching up and telling stories.
When planning a summer outdoor party, make sure you have seating for all types of guests. Older guests may want to have a comfortable seating area where they can bond with their kids and grandkids. Check out the Green Spring Aluminum 4-Piece Outdoor Seating Set with Cushions in White, which offers a lovely and cozy space to sit back and enjoy the outdoors. This set features aluminum frames that are finished in two layers of powder coating so you’re sure they won’t rust. It also features lower, angled seats with generous cushions for hours of comfort and enjoyment. Its cushions come in a neutral gray color that matches any decor and are made from washable, weather-resistant olefin fabric that can withstand the test of time. The coffee table also comes with a tempered safety glass tabletop with a unique printed pattern resembling aged wood. This delightful piece can be used all summer long and makes for a comfortable gathering space for loved ones outdoors. Shop at Plow & Hearth.
4. Make bottled drinks easily accessible for your guests so you spend less time serving and more time bonding.
A summer outdoor party won’t be complete without the Plow & Hearth Standing Galvanized Metal Wine and Beer Chiller, which is a handsome and practical way to keep drinks cool and easily accessible for guests. This piece is crafted from high quality, durable galvanized metal with a study design that features a bottom rack for extra storage. Its large size can keep your drinks cold for longer and can keep guests eager to help themselves to whatever you’re serving. It also features a built-in bottle opener with a handy cap-catching box directly underneath so you need not worry about messes. Its four sturdy legs ensure stability even when it’s loaded with ice and refreshing drinks. Its integrated shelf makes for great storage for cups and other necessities. Shop at Plow & Hearth.
5. Set up an easy to use go-to picnic table to cater to more guests both young and old and encourage mingling.
Your next summer outdoor party will be a hit when you have the Clover Hill Picnic Table With Metal Frame and Movable Benches in Natural, which offers ample space for devouring your specialties from the grill. This set features separate benches for add versatility. Put it around the table or around a fire pit in the yard. Or use it the traditional way for mealtime during parties. Its three-piece design is lighter yet sturdier and more stylish than ever and is easier to move for mowing or following the shade. This set features a metal powder-coated frame that is rust-resistant and seat and table tops crafted from Acacia wood in smooth, water-resistant, colorfast finish that is also resistant to cracking, splitting and splintering. The benches can even accommodate up to 275 lbs of weight! Shop at Plow & Hearth.
Summer Outdoor Party Tip: Upgrade Your Serveware
1. RACHEL PARCELL Wood Serving Board in Bleached
Add a vintage inspired touch to your summer outdoor party serveware with the Rachel Parcell Wood Serving Board, which features a light-washed finish. It’s ideal for serving charcuterie at your next party as it features a 20-inch diameter that offers ample space. Made from mango wood, this generously sized wood board is great for both indoor or outdoor use. Shop at Nordstrom.
2. HAWKINS NEW YORK Agnes Large Serving Bowl in Blush
Serve salad stylishly at your next dinner party with the Hawkins New York Agnes Large Serving Bowl, which features mid-century minimalism in its hand-painted patterns. This serving bowl made of enameled stainless steel offers a timeless and charming look to your tablescape. It measures 10 x 5.5 inches and weighs 2 lbs. Also great as a hostess gift. Shop at Nordstrom.
3. VIETRI Into the Jungle Toucan Tray
Impress your guests at your next summer outdoor party with the Vietri Into the Jungle Toucan Tray which is hand painted in Italy. It features one of the tropic’s most intriguing creatures in a dramatic tray that is sure to start conversations at your next party or dinner gathering. This tray measures 13 x 17.25 inches and is made of earthenware that’s dishwasher safe. Perfect as a housewarming or hostess gift. Shop at Nordstrom.
4. JULISKA ‘Berry and Thread’ Two-Piece Hostess Set
This Juliska hostess set is truly the epitome of elegance and style. Featuring Juliska’s signature berry and thread motif, this meticulously crafted hostess set features a slotted serving spoon and meat fork, which are both designed in the spirit of old-world French tradition. This gorgeous pair is bound to become a well loved, treasured heirloom for years to come. It’s perfectly weighted and measures 10 inches in length and is even dishwasher safe. Bring everyday elegance to your tablescape with this stainless steel essential. Shop at Nordstrom.
5. ANNA NEW YORK Torta Cake Stand in Crystal Gold
Add a contemporary touch to your buffet tablescape this summer with the Anna New York Torta Cake Stand, which brings a positive, calming energy to your space. This organically shaped cake stand is crafted from crystal and plated in silver or 24-karat gold, making for a sleek and stylish conversation starter in any gathering. It truly is the epitome of aspirational. Shop at Nordstrom.
Added bonus: BE HOME Mosaic Mother of Pearl Serving Board in Pearl
Add style and elegance to your tablescape with this elegant, chevron-patterned serving board from Be Home. Featuring delicate and gorgeous mother-of-pearl, this serving board shines with a texture and contrast like no other so you can start conversations at your next dinner party. It measures 15 x 7 x 0.75 inches and is made of mother-of-pearl, bamboo wood, and MDF. Shop at Nordstrom.
Fourth of July Summer Outdoor Party Tip: Load Up on Patriotic Decor to Get Into the Spirit of Independence Day
1. Plow & Hearth Half-Round Cotton Duck Patriotic Vintage Bunting with Embroidery
An elegant addition to your collection of patriotic decor, the Plow & Hearth Half-Round Cotton Duck Patriotic Vintage Bunting makes it easy to add a touch of nationalistic pride to your home this Fourth of July season. It features embroidered stars on 100% cotton duck with two top grommets for easy hanging. Its red, blue, and ecru colors offer a nostalgic, vintage appearance that does not look cheap and disposable. Its durability ensures use for years to come. Shop at Plow & Hearth.
2. Plow & Hearth Indoor/Outdoor Patriotic Throw Pillows
Decorate indoors or outdoors with these patriotic throw pillows from Plow & Hearth, which feature sturdy cotton construction so you can use it for longer. These red, antique white and blue pillows have a vintage Americana feel and offer an easy way to update your home to celebrate American holidays like Fourth of July, Veterans Day, and more. It’s also great for adding a pop of color to your porch, deck or living room furniture. Add a touch of American pride easily with these collectible pillows. Shop at Plow & Hearth.
3. Plow & Hearth Cotton Duck Stars And Stripes Americana Pennant Bunting With Embroidery
Tired of paper buntings that are easily destroyed and disposed of during parties? Then go for the Plow & Hearth Cotton Duck Stars And Stripes Americana Pennant Bunting, which are made of 100% cotton and feature unique embroidery. These stars and stripes Americana pennant buntings offer a fun, patriotic string of red, ecru and blue pennants that add festive flair to any occasion. Measures 9 x 11 inches. Shop at Plow & Hearth.
4. Plow & Hearth Lighted Americana Flag Art
Talk about a conversation piece! The Plow & Hearth Lighted Americana Flag Art is a festive light-up America-shaped accent that is great for placing in your man cave, living room, study, or anywhere you want to get inspired with the patriotic spirit. It features battery-operated auto-timer LED lights with a timer that runs 8 hours on, 16 hours off. This unique flag art is hand crafted from recycled metal in Bali, making every piece truly unique. Shop at Plow & Hearth.
5. Plow & Hearth Indoor/Outdoor Patriotic Pooch Hooked Polypropylene Accent Rug
Welcome guests into your home this summer with this patriotic pooch accent rug from Plow & Hearth. It features a nostalgic image of a Black Lab riding in the back of a vintage truck complete with flag bunting that altogether offers a patriotic look and feel to your front door. This weather-resistant, easy care rug is great for use both indoors or outdoors as it won’t fade or break down easily. It’s a great accent for Independence Day, Memorial Day and Veterans Day. The rug is hand-hooked for gorgeous style and added texture and is easy to vacuum, hose-clean, or even machine wash. Made of 100% polypropylene face and poly-web backing. Shop at Plow & Hearth.
Other Summer Outdoor Party Must Haves for Fourth of July
- Jollylife Fourth of July Cupcake Toppers and Liners, 96-Piece Set featuring 48 cupcake toppers in three designs (Uncle Sam hat, fireworks, and balloons), and 48 cupcake wrappers in three designs (American flag, Uncle Sam, and 4th of July). Made with food grade materials. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
- Yaomiao Fourth of July Independence Day USA Foil Balloons and Streamers, with a set of USA balloons in three vibrant colors, six star shaped balloons and two garlands to put up indoors or outdoors during your summer party. Made from aluminum foil material that is safe and durable. Rated 5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
- Anderson’s Balloon Arch Kit with Patriotic Balloons, which measures 8 feet high, 5 feet wide, and 3 feet deep. Features red, white, and blue latex balloons, patriotic foil balloons, foil stars, metal tapered end poles, plastic bases, wire connectors, stars and stripes banner, clear tape, filament tape, thread, wiping cloth, and kit instructions for assembly. Shop at Amazon.
- Just Artifacts Patriotic Premium Biodegradable Disposable Drinking Paper Straws in Land of Liberty, with 25 navy stripe, 25 solid metallic red, 24, metallic red polka dot, and 25 navy chevron striped paper straws all made with quality paper and free of any lead paints. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
- Nicole Home Collection Hot and Cold Paper Cups in Stars ‘N Stripes, with 24 premium heavy weight paper cups that can hold 12 oz of beverages, great for parties and other celebrations. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
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