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Thank goodness summer has arrived. It's time to think about entertaining outdoors. Is your deck ready for an outdoor summer party? Here are a few things to consider for your deck party prep plans.
Inspect and Clean Your Deck
Take a few minutes to walk around and inspect your deck for stains, dirt, leaves, and other debris. Find a new home for any items that may be cluttering your deck such as lawn and garden tools, bicycles, old pots, and toys. Clean all deck surfaces and existing deck furniture using a garden hose and a scrub brush dipped in a solution of mild detergent and water.
Note areas that require repair. Inspect your deck for leaks and other damage that may have occurred during the offseason and, if time permits, you can make any quick fixes for a leaky deck that is needed.
Decorate, Decorate, Decorate
Whether you plan to buy new deck furniture or use your existing furniture, you can jazz up your deck space with playful throw pillows and themed tablecloths, napkins, and serving dishes. Choose bright colors and whimsical prints to make your deck more festive.
Choose lighting that enhances the ambiance of your outdoor setting. Your light should facilitate a smooth transition from day to evening to night activities.
Use plants in functional and aesthetic ways. Potted plants can make your deck feel calm and inviting. And large ones can provide a bit of shade during the hottest, sunniest part of the day. Citronella, marigolds, mint, and lavender are attractive and fragrant plants that are also effective natural bug repellents.
Plan the Big Day
Your deck party prep should also include planning the food, drinks, music, and activities, creating a guest list and sending out invitations. Your menu should consist of several tasty dishes to satisfy a variety of culinary appetites: plan one and a half servings of every food item for each guest. Expect your guests to consume 2 - 3 drinks per hour.
Your party playlist should include popular music spanning several decades and genres. If you like your music choices, chances are your guests will love them too.
Plan activities that will encourage your guests to mingle and get to know one another. Use party favors that spark conversation. Mix famous line dancing songs to get your guests up and moving on the dance floor.
In summary, be sure that your summer deck party prep also factors in time for you to have a good time. Your menu and activities should be planned to maximize your fun and enjoyment and get to spend the most amount of time socializing with your guests. Plan for delicious food, comfortable furniture, and pleasing lighting on a clean, decluttered, bug-free outdoor deck.
