Memorial Day Cookout

There’s a lot to love about hosting in the late spring and early summer. Grilling, outside dining, pool or lakeside drinks, and time under the sun (or just enjoying the cool summer breeze relaxing in the shade of a 9' Market umbrella or 10' cantilever umbrella) are just a few of our favorites. Take advantage of the start of the outdoor living season by hosting a Memorial Day gathering or another outdoor event to kick off the start of summer.

For a successful early summer party, all you have to do is gather some family or friends, plan for plenty of food and let the summer fun begin!

Family and Friends

When determining guests for a summer get-together, you should consider the type of party you want to host, as well as your outdoor living space. If you plan to serve a full, sit-down meal, you’ll want to make sure you have a patio set that can accommodate the number of guests. Today’s patio sets are offering more versatile options for hosting different sized crowds. For instance, outdoor extension tables are available to accommodate family and friends for easy outdoor entertaining. Outdoor dining chair options have also expanded to provide more versatile seating, including numerous outdoor chair styles and outdoor dining benches. Additionally, outdoor folding chairs can be used to squeeze in extra guests.

For a more casual party, you will still want to make sure guests have a place to sit back and relax while munching on snacks and enjoying drinks and conversation. Outdoor sofas and lounge chairs are great for entertaining and relaxing year-round.

Festive Food

Outdoor entertaining is often synonymous with cookouts. It’s a great excuse to get the grill fired up and enjoy burgers, brats and hotdogs. You can also try new recipes, such as homemade pizzas on the grill that are sure to impress. A Big Green Egg is a Japanese-style kamado cooker that works as an outdoor smoker, outdoor grill and even an outdoor oven for baked goods. With different sizes available, you can choose a Big Green Egg that will fit your guest list and appetite.

Fun!

The fun is easy to be had this time of year. However, you may want to plan a few activities for guests to enjoy as the party goes on. Outdoor yard games are usually a hit, and young guests may enjoy special activities set up for them, such as bubbles, chalk and water balloons.

With these items planned, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a great Memorial Day event, and kicking off your summer hosting plans.