Your Guide to Summer Hosting

May 19, 2026
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Melissa Horvath

Feeling inspired to host this Summer, but not sure where to start? We’ve got you. Below, we curated a few ideas to kick off your planning. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard BBQ or a golden hour evening with your best friends, a few intentional touches can make the experience all the more Instagram-worthy.


Outdoor Movie Night

There’s something nostalgic about watching a movie outside on a warm summer evening. This is one of the easiest ways to host without overcomplicating things, and it works just as well for families as it does for a cozy night with friends.

What you’ll need:

Projector

White sheet

Cozy blankets

Throw pillows

Summer candles

Popcorn and candy


Golden Hour Garden Party

If there’s one thing Summer was made for, it’s lingering around the table during golden hour. A garden-inspired dinner party feels elevated yet warm is perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, or spontaneous Friday night gatherings.

What you’ll need:

Long folding table

Gingham tablecloth

Flower stems (faux or real)

Green delft serving trays

Finger foods

Coupe outdoor cocktail glasses

Mix fresh florals with candlelight and layered serving pieces to create a table that feels collected and effortless. Soft colors, botanical details, and glassware designed for outdoor entertaining instantly make the evening feel more intentional.



Sunset Spritz Night

For the host who loves a relaxed yet elevated evening followed by a few cocktails (or mocktails), a spritz night is the perfect excuse to gather a few friends outdoors and enjoy a slow Summer evening together.

What you’ll need:

Outdoor cocktail glasses

Citrus slices and fresh herbs

Gold taper candle holders

Taper candles

A drink station or bar cart

Striped paper straws

Ice bucket

Create a self-serve spritz station with sparkling beverages, citrus garnishes, and fresh herbs like mint or rosemary. Add candles or flameless fragrance nearby to make the space feel inviting long after sunset.


Americana BBQ

An Americana-inspired BBQ is all about easy food, relaxed conversation, and creating a space where everyone feels comfortable staying awhile.

What you’ll need:

Grill essentials

Blue outdoor cocktail glasses

Striped or neutral table linens

White scalloped serving trays

Red and blue florals

White hydrangea stems

Pitcher

String lights

Lean into timeless summer details with layered serving pieces, simple florals, and ambient lighting that carries the gathering into the evening. 

 

At the end of the day, hosting isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating moments people want to remember. A thoughtfully lit table, a signature scent in the air, or a toast with beautiful drinkware shared among friends can make even the simplest gathering feel meaningful. Shop our entire Summer Hosting Collection here.

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