Most of us can agree that spending time with family and friends took on a whole new meaning since the pandemic began in 2020. Whether you’re inviting a few loved ones over for a summer barbecue, pool day, or bonfire, these are all opportunities to create memories that will last a lifetime.

To celebrate the season, we’ve put together a list of tips on how to plan an effortless, intimate summer party that is destined to put a smile on everyone’s face.

1. Choose a Theme

One of our favorite parts about events, besides planning the menu of course, is getting creative with florals and decor. Southern-inspired, tropical, or Bohemian are all great starting points for deciding on a summer party theme. But no matter which one you choose, don’t be afraid of color! Summer is the perfect time to have fun with vibrant hues.

To keep it simple and save money, use decor pieces you already have around the house. Mexican blankets or scarves can be used as table runners, candles in varying heights for centerpieces, and greenery from your own yard for arrangements. Ferns, magnolia leaves, and even boxwood all make beautiful bouquets, garlands or accent pieces.

If you want to keep it casual, we recommend visiting some of our favorite local party shops like Hester & Cook and Harlan Ruby for patterned disposable table runners, fun paper plates, and more.

2. Plan the Perfect Menu

Whether you’re planning a southern barbecue or a classic cookout, there’s just something about summer that makes food even tastier. Your menu doesn’t have to be complicated; sometimes the best summer meals are the simple ones we grew up with. 

Surf & Turf

Nothing says summer like seafood and the beach! Have your guests feeling tropical by serving a fun menu full of finger foods with a raw bar and festive Bloody Mary shrimp skewers.

And don’t forget the cocktails! There’s nothing quite like a frosty adult beverage during the summer months. Made with St. George Green Chile Vodka, coconut water, muddled jalapeño, lime, and sparkling water, our 12South signature cocktail is refreshing and ideal for summer sippin’. Is your liquor cabinet empty?

Taco Bar

We’ll take tacos any time of year but especially in the summer months. A variety of chicken, beef, and vegetarian tacos will be sure to satisfy each and every guest. And you can’t forget the queso.

For drinks, nothing goes better with a Mexican-inspired meal than a margarita. Our Ring of Fire signature cocktail is a festive twist on the traditional marg with jalapeño, tequila, peach juice, Sprite, and grenadine.

Southern BBQ

At Dream we love serving summer favorites with a twist, like sliders with smoked pulled pork, pulled chicken, or smokehouse brisket with Jack Daniel’s BBQ sauce served with pimento mac n’ cheese and tri-color green bean slaw— or a Southern classic of chicken (regular or hot!) and waffles. Get ready for guests to come back and fill their plates with seconds. 

For a sweet treat, we suggest a cobbler made with fresh peaches and served with vanilla ice cream.

3. Prepare to Beat the Heat

This summer heat is no joke! To keep your guests cool, consider providing ample amounts of shade with awnings or planning the gathering under a tree. No shade? Handheld fans are the way to go.

As for the sun and summer bugs, consider setting up a little sunscreen and bug spray station so your guests don’t have to worry about sunburns or mosquito bites!

4. Arrange an Activity

Got kiddos in attendance or want something fun for the adults to do? Arrange an activity or two so the little ones are kept occupied, and you can join the fun if you want, too! Backyard games like croquet or badminton can be fun for everyone– and don’t forget the yard game staples like corn hole, horseshoes, or bocce ball. Don’t have those? Card games, puzzles, and coloring are all great activities, too.

5. Serve Some Pie or Fruity Desserts

Summer is the time for pie and sweet, fresh fruit! Seasonal fruits like peaches, strawberries, and blueberries are in abundance and perfect for those summer days. But don’t limit yourself to just one dessert! Create a dessert bar so guests can pick from a variety of sweet bites— like mini pecan pies or strawberry shortcake— and it can also serve double duty as a focal point in your event. Just don’t forget a side of vanilla ice cream!

Photos by Jen and Chris Creed, Honey and Bee, Sealed with a Kiss Photography, Sara Bill Photography, and Madi Flournoy.