✨ 5 Easy & Affordable Ways to Elevate Your Summer Gathering
Summer is the season for doing all the things outside—long, lazy afternoons that roll into golden-hour evenings (usually with an early happy hour in hand). It’s unplanned, a little chaotic, and filled with last-minute get-togethers that somehow turn into all-night hangs.
But if you’re anything like me, you want those moments to feel a little extra special but don’t have the time to plan a whole production. That’s where a few extra yet EASY touches can completely transform your gathering from “casual hang” to an Instagram worthy get together!
1. Set your table up right.
No summer gathering is complete without at least a little something for your guests to nibble and sip on (especially when you come to KJ’s house!) Think of your table as centerpiece to any get together. Whether you’re setting up a beautiful buffet or having the girls gather around the fire pit, you want your set up to look as classy and fun as you! Start with candles. Lighting is everything, and these gorgeous candlesticks and taper candles are instant vibe setters that don’t take a whole lot of set up. Even in the daylight these simple centerpieces will instantly elevate your table. I always like to layer on a textured table runner and linen napkins because it the easiest way to give effortless elegance while keeping your table clean.
2. Bring the mood with lighting.
Once the sun has set on your day but the party is just getting started, it’s up to you to keep that cozy, golden glow that makes people stick around for “just one more drink.” One of my favorite ways to do this is to drape string lights over your patio or balcony for the ultimate summer-night vibe. It may be an obvious move, but it elevates any backyard party and looks pretty too! If you want a ‘lil extra elevation, add these glass hurricane vases with realistic LED candles so you get the beauty of the candlelight flicker without the fire hazard. LED candles can sometimes look overly fake but these are a great option!
3. Serve it up in style.
Call me type A, but here’s the thing — presentation matters. Sure, the food will always speak for itself; but how it’s served is just as important in making it appetizing. Platters, plates, cups- all these little pieces create a vibe for your party without having to put out a single decoration. I’ve never been more obsessed with a product than these mini charcuterie boards that sit on your wine glass. Even if you don’t have the time to put out a full spread for your guests, these little beauties make it easy to give your guest a light bite in the sweetest way. And nothing makes me happier than a get together where the drinks are flowing, so having a big beverage dispenser filled with whatever refreshment I am serving up keeps my party going strong. Guests can help themselves, and you’re free to actually enjoy your own party instead of making cocktails on repeat (you can check out the batch cocktail recipes on my blog if you need any inspo 😉) .
4. Keep it cool.
If your summer gathering is happening in the day time, you have one job- keep your guests chill. No one wants to drink and be merry when sweat is dripping down their back. That’s why we need our wine chilled and our patios shady. Warm rosé? No thank you. This little cooler table is my ride-or-die for outdoor entertaining. If you’re not looking for any more outdoor furniture but want something classier then a styrofoam cooler, I love this gorgeous gold tub to keep all my bottles and bevs cool. Trust me, all you need is that ‘ice ice baby’ and you are all set to chill. 😎
5. Add the final touch.
It’s the little things that make the biggest difference. I love to scatter flowers in fun vases along the table, or place one of these cute little dried bouquets at each seat as a gift. It’s a small gesture that makes your guests feel special! And honestly, isn’t that the whole point of entertaining?
In closing, remember this—
Summer entertaining doesn’t need to be complicated, it just needs to feel good. And honestly? It doesn’t take much. A few beautiful pieces, the right mood lighting, something fun to sip, and you’re basically there. These are the things I reach for again and again—the little touches that help you pull together those memory-making moments without any stress. People might not remember exactly what your setup looked like, but they’ll definitely remember how you made them feel. So set the table, pour the drinks, and let summer do its thing.
Comment below and let me know your favorite easy & affordable entertaining tips!
XO
Nicole