Make the Most of Your Outdoor Kitchen This Summer

Your outdoor kitchen expands your usable living space and provides a perfect setting to gather with family, entertain friends, and host special occasions including graduation parties, baby showers, even a backyard wedding.  Here are some tips to help you as you plan your next outdoor event. Whether you’re hosting a big group or just gathering with family, these outdoor party tips can make the time special and memorable.

Keep It Cool

Staying cool is a big challenge during an outdoor summer gathering, but there are plenty of ways to help your guests beat the heat!

• If your patio or other space isn’t covered, consider adding a patio cover or awning. This will keep the sun from beating down directly on your guests.
  
• Putting an outdoor rug down can help the concrete from absorbing the heat, and help keep things a bit cooler.
  
• Consider purchasing or renting a portable outdoor cooler. These coolers can lower the temperature in your space by as much as 30°, and will keep your guests much more comfortable.
  

Don’t Let Pests Bug You

Mosquitoes and other pests can distract from the fun of your party, so here are a few tips to keep them at bay!

• Buy several citronella torches and surround the portion of your yard where the gathering will take place. This helps to keep bugs at bay and it provides a cool look for your party.
  
• This isn’t a last-minute solution, but homeowners can help to keep bugs away from their outdoor kitchens by including certain plants in their landscaping plans. A few examples of bug-repellant plants include lemongrass, citronella, basil, fennel, and thyme.
  
• Place several fans around the space, especially near the food, so that pests won’t be able to make their unwelcome entrance.
  
• Have several bottles of insect repellant on hand, so guests can apply as needed.
  

Take Your Barbecue to the Next Level

Hamburgers and hot dogs will always have their place at certain outdoor gatherings, but why not think outside the box for your next party? Fancy salads, steaks with impressive marinades, and new, updated takes on old favorites such as potato salad are a few fun food ideas.

General food tips:

• Have lots of mesh food covers handy to keep bugs from landing on food.
  
• Generally, it’s better to serve lighter fare at an outdoor party—especially if it’s hot.
  
• If there will be kids at the party, it’s a good idea to have hamburgers and hot dogs on standby to satisfy any picky eaters.
  

Drinks at the Ready—Give the Bartender a Break

Unless you’re hiring a professional to take on bartender duties, having big batch cocktails at the ready will ensure none of your family members will get stuck behind the bar. You can store an entire party’s worth of drinks, and guests can help themselves throughout the event. A quick internet search will yield lots of delicious-sounding options such as watermelon hibiscus lime margarita, strawberry wine punch, blueberry lavender vodka spritzer, and dozens more.

• Make three or four big batch drinks, so guests can have more than one option.
  
• Include at least one virgin drink for your guests who don’t drink alcohol.
  
• Consider purchasing pretty drink dispensers to line up on the bar for easy self-serving.
  

Window Authority of Houston is a trusted choice for outdoor kitchens, patios, and other interior and exterior remodeling. Contact us to learn more about our services. Give us a call today, or fill out our simple online form now to schedule a free, in-home estimate.