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Summer is the perfect time to open up your outdoor space and bring people together—whether it’s a casual backyard BBQ, a birthday bash, or an elegant evening under the string lights. As real estate professionals, we’re often helping clients envision how a home lives, not just how it looks on paper. And one of the best ways to enjoy your home is by sharing it with others.
If you’re thinking about hosting an outdoor gathering at your home, here’s a guide to help you prepare like a pro—without the stress.
1. Start with the Space You Have
You don’t need a huge backyard or an HGTV-worthy patio to host a great event. The key is making the most of what you have. Think about:
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Flow – Can guests move easily between spaces (kitchen to yard, seating areas, bathroom access)?
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Comfort – Is there enough shade, seating, and lighting?
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Ambience – A few intentional touches can completely transform your space.
A small patio with string lights, music, and cozy cushions can feel just as magical as a full-blown backyard.
2. Declutter & Clean
Just like preparing for a showing, you’ll want to make sure your outdoor area is clean and inviting:
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Power wash patios or decks (or give them a good sweep and rinse)
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Wipe down outdoor furniture
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Pull weeds and trim overgrown plants
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Stash away yard tools, toys, or anything that distracts from the setting
If you’re using your indoor space for guests as well (for bathrooms or food prep), give those areas a quick tidy too.
3. Create Zones for Function
Break up your outdoor area into simple zones to help your party flow:
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Welcome Zone: A place for guests to enter, drop bags, or grab a drink.
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Seating Zone: Use patio furniture, foldable chairs, or even picnic blankets.
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Food & Drink Station: Set up a central table for snacks, drinks, or buffet-style meals.
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Activity Area: Games for the kids, a fire pit, or a music setup.
This keeps things organized—and guests feel more comfortable when they know where to go.
4. Lighting Makes the Magic
If your event goes into the evening, lighting is essential. The good news? It doesn’t have to be expensive:
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String lights are an easy way to add charm and visibility.
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Lanterns, candles (citronella ones help with bugs!), or solar garden lights can add cozy touches.
Pro tip: Use warm-toned lighting to create a more inviting atmosphere.
5. Keep It Simple with Food & Drinks
You don’t have to be a gourmet chef to impress your guests. Choose easy, crowd-pleasing options:
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A make-ahead salad, sliders, or a taco bar are all fun and functional.
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Offer a self-serve drink station with water, lemonade, and one or two signature beverages.
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If you’re short on time, consider local catering or even a food truck.
And don’t forget to have plenty of trash/recycling bins set out for easy cleanup!
6. Think About Comfort
Little touches go a long way in making your guests feel relaxed:
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Offer sunscreen and bug spray in a small basket outside.
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Have extra throw blankets or cushions on hand for chilly evenings.
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Set out citronella candles or fans if bugs or heat are an issue.
7. Add Personal Touches
Make your event feel like you. Add small details like:
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A handwritten welcome sign
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A curated playlist
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Centerpieces using fresh herbs or flowers from your own yard
These simple gestures make the gathering feel intentional and heartfelt.
Bonus Tip: Hosting Shows Off Your Home’s Potential
Whether or not you’re planning to sell, a well-hosted gathering showcases the lifestyle your home offers. It’s a great reminder that a home isn’t just where you live—it’s where you create memories.
And if you are thinking of selling down the road? Hosting can help you see your space through your guests’ eyes, giving you fresh insight into how it functions—and what potential buyers might love.
Ready to Entertain?
We love seeing our clients enjoy their homes to the fullest. If you ever need help maximizing your space, upgrading your backyard, or even finding a new home better suited to your lifestyle—we’re here to help. Reach out today!
Happy hosting!
– Team Davidow
