When it’s warm outside, alfresco entertaining is one of life’s great joys. Everything seems to taste better in the open air, and the sun or stars can create a mood ranging from playful to romantic. Best of all, meals can take any shape, from earthy picnics to elegant repasts.
Regardless of substance or style, there are certain considerations to keep in mind for every outdoor event, says Paula Jhung, author of “Guests Without Grief” (Simon & Schuster, $11), because “there are all sorts of annoyances that get in the way.”
Lest you think wind, rain and bugs are the big culprits, consider what Jhung calls the most pressing problem–light.
“There’s not enough at night and no shade during the day,” she says.
When it’s sunny outside, bright light can hurt eyes, burn skin, affect food safety and raise the heat quotient to unbearable levels. At night parties, there never seems to be enough light, and a mild evening can become too cool when the sun sets.
So how can you handle the parameters of outdoor entertaining? Here are some suggestions from Jhung:
Food: Even if you’re grilling or eating outdoors, serve everything inside except hardy appetizers such as veggies or chips. This solves the food-safety issue because the meal will be protected from heat, bugs and insect spray. For serving buffets, Jhung has used everything from a cloth-covered kitchen island to a laundry room near a pool draped with festive, richly colored sheets. Take extra precautions with anything that can spoil; place bowls of sensitive foods in larger containers with ice, or keep hot dishes steaming with electric equipment.
Drinks: Set up a bar outside, as far as possible from the food-service area to avoid bottlenecks. Make sure there is enough shade or light nearby, depending on the time of day the party takes place. If wind is a factor, make sure the bar is located near a source of some protection, such as a corner where two walls meet.
Shade: Make sure there’s plenty of it on a bright day. Umbrellas, canopies or wall-less tents are reasonably priced accessories and easy to erect and store. Garden porticoes also can be covered with sheets for a protective effect.
Light: There should be plenty of it at night, especially along walkways or by steps to prevent accidents. Jhung’s favorite trick is to use white Christmas lights at night to illuminate whole areas of the yard and pathways.
Critter control: Jhung deplores bug sprays because they can taint food but scatters large citronella candles around the garden. For guests, put baskets in strategic spots loaded with mosquito repellent towelettes (several brands are available).
