There’s no better way to commemorate the end of summer and the beginning of fall than with a great Labor Day patio party. Get together your friends and family and get ready to make memories right in the comfort of your own backyard.
Prep Your Patio
Your first priority when hosting a Labor Day party should be ensuring that your outdoor space is inviting and comfortable. Sweep up and wash away all the leaves and debris. Have storage bags ready to help. Hose down your patio and wipe it down with an outdoor cleaner.
Clean all the furniture, especially if it hasn’t been protected by measures such as dining set covers. Naturally, it’s important that the grill is in great shape, too. With a grill brush and some soap and water, it will look as good as new. Just don’t forget to place the grill covers back on once you’re done.
Invite Your Nearest and Dearest
Everyone can agree that it’s the guests that truly make the party memorable. Make a list of everyone you want to invite and go over it again to make sure no one’s been left out. Send invites well in advance. There are several online templates you can use for your invitation, or you can create your own. Sending a follow-up reminder after a few days is a nice touch. Ask everyone to RSVP in advance, so you know exactly how many to plan for.
Plan the Menu
Getting the food and drink in order ahead of time is essential. Depending on the number of people and your resources, you may want your menu to be catered, or you may prefer to make it on your own.
Burgers and hot dogs are Labor Day staples, but don’t forget to utilize veggies, salads, and fruit in your menu. You should also think of a scrumptious dessert to end things on a sweet notes.
Prepare the Grill
Your grill is going to be the heart of the party, so ensuring that it’s ready to go is crucial. Inspect the tubes, check for leaks, and make sure it is placed on a stable foundation. Remove any grill covers and thoroughly brush away any ash, debris, or grease that may be left over from the last time.
Don’t forget to keep adequate supplies of gas or charcoal on hand. Before the party, make sure the food is ready and arranged to land on the grill just before guests arrive.
Dress Up Your Patio
When it comes to decorating your patio, the possibilities are endless. If you want a patriotic theme, try wreaths, flags, and buntings. Balloons and confetti will add fun flair, and string lights can create an enchanting ambiance once the sun sets. Even dining set covers can be customized to fit the celebratory theme of your choosing.
Engrossing Yard Games
Games and activities move the fun into a higher gear. You can look at games such as mini-golf, ring toss, and tug of war. Charades always bring everyone together, and for the kids, there’s always tag, sack races, and hide-and-seek. Remember to make a list of activities beforehand, and keep the equipment clean, laid out, and accessible before the party begins.
Create A Condiment Table
Condiment tables with holders for ketchup, mustard, and other sauces are a terrific touch. It’s something your guests are sure to appreciate for its convenience. Some of them even come with mini umbrellas for an extra festive touch. Set this up before the party starts, and make sure there’s enough condiments to go around.
Keep Bugs At Bay
Bugs have got to be among the most annoying gate-crashers at any outdoor gathering. Spraying the area with an insecticide ahead of the party can be an effective means of keeping bugs away. Citronella candles are another smart solution for a lovely smelling, bug-free backyard. Make sure to have bottles of bug spray at the ready for your guests to use if necessary.
Make Sure There’s Shade
It’s always a thoughtful touch to provide shade in your patio for people who want to get out of the sun. Umbrellas, pergolas, and awnings are the perfect shade solutions. You can even get creative and use large, colorful tarps to create your own shady spots. This adds a fun touch to the overall décor. Some cushions to sprawl on under these will complete the picture.
Finally, Have Fun
As a host, you can get caught up in the details of receiving guests, organizing food, making sure everyone has a drink, and more. However, don’t forget that a party is a place for everyone to enjoy themselves, and that includes you. Mingle, eat, chat, laugh, and above all, have fun.
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