Summer has arrived in Montgomery, Alabama, bringing sunny days and ideal conditions for outdoor gatherings. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident planning to entertain, hosting a summer party can be made effortless with these essential tips:
- Create a Refreshing Menu: Choose dishes suitable for warm weather to avoid wilting. Use metal trays over ice and pre-freeze them for extended freshness. Shield food from direct sunlight and employ mesh food tents to ward off insects.
- Keep Guests Hydrated: Beat the Alabama heat with thirst-quenching drinks like fruit-infused water or chilled lemonade. Keep beverages cool in ice to ensure they stay refreshing throughout the day.
- Bug-Free Environment: Prepare for summer insects by using diffusers with citrus, mint, or lavender scents. Decorate with fresh lemons or try a water-filled glass with pennies to deter flies effectively!
- Comfortable Seating and Shade: Provide ample seating in shaded areas to keep guests cool while they eat and relax. For children, lay out quilts or blankets for a comfortable spot to enjoy snacks and games.
- Cooling Stations: Prepare for hot spells by offering indoor areas with air conditioning or renting large tents with misting fans. Industrial fans can also help keep the air circulating and guests comfortable.
- Ideal Timing: Choose the best time of day to host your party, considering Montgomery’s weather. Aim for cooler parts of the day to maximize guest comfort and minimize bug interference.
- Themed Fun: Enhance the atmosphere with a summer party theme like BBQ campout or Summer Olympics. Coordinate decorations and party favors accordingly, and keep guests entertained with outdoor games like cornhole or horseshoes.