How to stay cool when hosting outside in summer – 6 expert summer tips
Keep your cool when hosting in summer with these six tricks
![Table in garden set for meal with bunthing overhead](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qXT6gQkMnmkyndEgd2jGjg-415-80.jpg)
Hosting outside in summer is a wonderful way to celebrate the season with friends and family, but soaring temperatures can sometimes make it difficult to stay cool and comfortable.
While we could move to host indoors, it would be a waste of the beautiful sunshine and fresh air. So, how do you and your guests stay cool when hosting outside in summer?
We spoke to hosting experts who shared their practical and creative approaches to staying cool at a summer yard party.
How to stay cool when hosting outside
Whether you are preparing a small backyard for summer hosting, or are ready to throw a big pool bash, these six summer hosting tips are the best way to help you keep your cool and beat the heat.
1. Create shaded spots
While some time out in the sun is good fun, it is important to create some patio shade in your yard to offer guests some respite, says Julianna McIntosh, hosting expert and Cutwater mixologist:
‘Creating shaded areas is a must. I recommend using large umbrellas or pop-up tents to provide ample cover. Setting up comfortable seating areas under the shade with cozy cushions and fans can help guests stay cool and relaxed,’ she adds.
Whether a gazebo or a patio umbrella is best for you and your space will largely depend on the size of your space and your gathering, but either offers ample cool shade.
2. Combine indoor and outdoor hosting
If the shade is not enough, you could combine indoor and outdoor hosting by opening up doors to create places of rest bite for your guests, adds Dawna Pitts, hosting expert and author of Entertaining is my Love Language, available at Amazon:
‘I live in very sunny Paradise Valley, Arizona, so oftentimes I hold the “mingling hour” (the beginning forty-five minutes to an hour) inside, and then, after the sun has set enough, I love taking the party outside for comfortable dining without the sun beating down,’ she shares.
When mixing indoor and outdoor spaces, be sure to prepare a kitchen for hosting by keeping a kitchen cool and laying out lots of cool drinks and snacks for guests to help themselves when they are sheltering from the sun.
3. Pick the menu carefully
A seasonal summer party calls for a seasonal summer menu. Cassie LaMere, founder and creative director of the luxury event planning company Cassie LaMere Events, recommends choosing chilled or frozen food and beverage items:
‘There are so many creative ice cubes, cocktail garnishes, and dessert treats that can complement a summer evening al fresco. Serve beverages in mint julep cups with shaved ice that hold onto their cooling effect even in peak heat, or have glassware in a freezer so it presents frosted.’
‘For me, serving refreshing drinks is essential,’ continues Julianna McIntosh, hosting expert and mixologist. ‘I love suggesting Cutwater's canned cocktails – not only are they easy to serve and keep guests cool, but they are as good as a handmade cocktail. You can even personalize it with make-ahead infused ice cubes. These ice cubes can be made by freezing a beautiful garnish, like an edible flower, adding an extra layer of fun to your drinks.
‘This may seem weird, but freezing fruit is a game changer,’ Julianna adds. ‘It's a trick I use when going to the beach – it helps when it's a really warm day to cool down with ice-cold fruit to snack on (watermelon spears are my favorite for this)! These small touches can make a big difference in keeping everyone comfortable during outdoor gatherings.'
4. Use portable cooling units
Shade will certainly help to create some cool outdoor spots, but on a humid day, it might not be enough. This is why Frank Clemente, senior experience architect and design strategist at hosting professionals FrankLynn Visual Marketing, suggests investing in some portable cooling units:
‘Enhance guest comfort with portable air cooling units. These units are easy to set up, plug into standard outlets, and provide a burst of cold air with a fine mist of water,’ he explains. ‘They're perfect for maintaining a comfortable temperature during outdoor festivities, ensuring everyone can relax and enjoy the experience.'
5. Suggest the color theme light
Light color schemes do more than set the mood for a summer party, they can help to trick the brain into feeling cooler too, Frank Clemente, senior experience architect, continues. A soft summer color palette is ideal for a subtle theme.
‘Encourage guests to wear light-colored clothing to help stay cool. Consider suggesting a pastel color palette or even an all-white dress code for a refreshing and stylish atmosphere. Guests love participating in themed attire, which adds to the fun and cooling effect of the event.’
6. Appeal to all the senses
Similarly, you can feel cooler and less overwhelmed by heat if you appeal to all of your senses. With taste and visuals covered, that means making a home smell nice for summer and putting on some soothing summer sounds to help guests feel relaxed, Cassie LaMere, hosting expert, advises:
‘Seasoned event planners know the key to a successful event is tapping into the power of engaging all of the senses. If you want to convey coolness, consider how you can translate that energy into the sight, smell, taste, touch, and sound of your gathering. For example, saltwater or eucalyptus scents are refreshing and soothing,’ she suggests. ‘Then, keep the playlist soothing with ocean waves or yacht rock, both will transport you to on-the-water instant chill vibes.’
Set a refreshing summer scent and keep pesky bugs away with a citronella candle
Hosting an outdoor event in the summer doesn't have to be a sweltering ordeal. Keeping you and your guests cool and collected can be as simple as following these six summary tips – no matter what the mercury reads. The key to a successful summer party is careful preparation and a few creative touches that make all the difference.
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.
Chiana has been at Homes & Gardens for two years. She spends most of her time producing content for the Solved section of the website, helping readers get the most out of their homes through clever decluttering, cleaning, and tidying tips. She was named one of Fixr's top home improvement journalists in 2024.
-
How to light a yard for winter – 5 elegant and practical methods from lighting experts
It's not obvious how to light a yard for winter. I spoke to lighting experts for 5 foolproof methods to light up your garden on the darkest winter night
By Alex David Published
-
How to winterize a garage like a pro in 7 simple steps
Prep your garage for the winter with our expert guide
By Seraphina Di Mizzurati Published
-
The 6 essential things professional organizers swear by to keep their rooms organized
Keep your space streamlined too with these expert-approved buys
By Chiana Dickson Published
-
6 things you can clean with citric acid around the house – plus, it's eco-friendly and reduces the need for harsh chemicals in your home
Professional cleaners love using this natural cleaner around the house
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
-
Can silk go in the dryer? Laundry pros say it could be a costly mistake, leading to warping and shrinking
Avoid this drying blooper to protect your silk bedding and clothing, experts urge
By Chiana Dickson Published
-
5 expert steps to organize a small walk-in closet – and how you can keep it that way for good
With these organizer-approved tips, even the smallest of closets can be functional and beautiful
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
-
The 4 purchases professional cleaners always regret – pros reveal what's a waste of money and where to spend instead
Experts warn off cleaning supplies that sound like a good idea but will actually make the task harder
By Chiana Dickson Published
-
Experts reveal 8 surprising uses for Ziploc bags around your home that are cost-effective and clever
Ziploc bags can be used in many ways from cleaning crayon marks to filing
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
-
Professional organizers won't leave Walmart without these 6 items
Elevate your home's storage with these expert-approved favorites
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
-
Experts reveal the 8 warning signs it's time to replace your hazardous old appliances – and what you definitely shouldn't delay or ignore
It's time for an upgrade if you notice any of these alarming signs
By Ottilie Blackhall Published