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Elegant Party Themes for the Summer
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items Summer is the perfect time to host an airy, elegant affair outdoors. There's something about an evening under the stars that's simply magical. Here are my five favorite themes for elevated summertime hosting. And don't forget - even if you pick a theme, there are still great hosting and decor items in ALL sections to help you create a gorgeous, memorable evening for all!
Sections
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Wine Tasting Under the Stars
Diner En Blanc
Mediterranean Escape
Garden Soiree
New Year's Eve - but Make it Summer
Decadent Parties' Posts for Inspiration
Wine Tasting Under the Stars
Friends will not want to miss a summer wine tasting under the stars! Easy to set up and facilitate, it's a fun, interactive way to spend a warm summer evening with guests. Have fun with this one! And check out my Posts for Inspiration for more details.
If you're hosting a wine tasting, you want crackers and light snacks to be readily available for guests throughout the evening. I love these smaller-sized boards to place among guests as they try the variety of wines offered. This make it easy to serve guests and ensures everyone has easy access to crackers, cheeses and other offerings. Note - there is a minimum purchase to buy, but I consider this more economical for a crowd.
Teakhaus Elegant 14" x 9" x 1/2" Teakwood Oval Serving Board with Rounded Edge and Hanging Hole
This is what your outdoor space absolutely needs to elevate your backyard events. Imagine wine tasting under the stars, with these rustic light illuminating the space? You'll need a few strands - andn will love them!
Outdoor String Lights for Patios and Outdoor Entertaining Spaces
When hosting a wine tasting, stemmed glassware is really the only way to go, creating elegance while providing an elevated experience. I love that Target offers great stemmed wine glasses at a very reasonable price. They look great and can be used all year long!
12.75oz Stemmed Hutton Wine Glass - Threshold™
YOU NEED THIS!! This is one of my favorite go-to resources for planning parties and get-togethers. The charcuterie options are fantastic - there's are cards for different holidays, meals and occasions. I love this deck SOOOO much!
The Cheese Board Deck: 50 Cards for Styling Spreads, Savory and Sweet (Illustrated edition) (Paperback)
Create the perfect evening ambience with classic string lights surrounding your hosting space! The glow of these simple, but striking lights will set the perfect scene throughout the evening. Highly rated and perfect for backyard celebrations! (No...
Nordic Hygge 100 ft. LED Outdoor String Lights Plug-in with 52 Shatterproof ST38 Vintage Edison Bulbs string-light100
For bulk purchases, you can't beat the Webstaurant store to deliver quality products for glassware and other entertainment needs. Once you purchase these, you'll be reaching for them every time you entertain. A highly rated product customers appreciate!
Acopa Select Flora 16 oz. Customizable Wine Glass - 12/Case
So these are pretty cool, and they're used at a lot of wineries in Napa and Sonoma. So easy to use and prevents drips and spills when you pour wine. We have these handy on our bar cart so we can always reach for one when we're serving wine!
NOGIS 50 Pack Silver Wine Pourer, Thin and Reusable Wine Pouring Disc, Drop Stoping Pour Spout for Home, Bar, Restaurant, Party
These candles complement the wine-tasting theme perfectly, while casting the perfect glow for an evening tasting. And the fact their upcycled is also a bonus. Friends will be admiring the creativity and asking where you got them!
Upcycled Horizontal Wine Bottle Candle- Several varieties
Summer wine tastings often lean toward lighter, crisper whites and rosés options - and keeping them cold is the key to enjoying them! I love this stand for keeping the wines chilled on the top, while also having that lower space to hold other light reds, serving accessories or towels. This will be a piece you use for entertaining time and again!
TableCraft Brickhouse Stand 23 1/2" x 12 3/4" x 22 1/2" GTSS2313S
Another beautiful and functional wine trough perfect for keeping wines cool during the evening. I love the personalized element to this, with the natural wood creating an organic, yet elevated feel. Perfect all year round!
Personalized Wooden Wine Trough, Engraved Beverage Cooler
I have a slight addiction to cocktail napkins, especially those with a sense of fun and whimsy! You will have so much fun browsing all of the selections from Napkins2go - good luck choosing your favorites! Even for a more elegant evening, these wil...
Cocktail Napkins
I love these wine tasting sheets for guests to take notes about the wines they're enjoying during the evening. Easy to follow and complete, guests will appreciate capturing their impressions of the wines they're enjoying, making it easier for them t...
Printed Wine Tasting Worksheets
These are the perfect size for heavy appetizers, light salads and charcuterie selections, while delivering simple elegance for any party. They can also be used for dessert plates or salad plates - so many possibilities! Guests will appreciate how y...
Ten Strawberry Street Catering 6" Coupe Square Appetizer Plate & Reviews | Wayfair
Diner En Blanc
I LOVE this as a theme for a party - we've hosting this a couple of times in our neighborhood and it's always a hit! Here's a list of items to make this THE event of the summer!
While Diner en Blanc is a more simplistic, airy affair, I love the idea of using this table runner with fairy lights underneath to accentuate a picnic or patio table. A simple way to bring a lovely, soft glow to the evening under the stars while cel...
Table Runner with Pearls,Sheer Tulle
The trickiest part about the decor for Diner en Blanc is to not make it look like a wedding reception. I love these simple centerpieces with the pops of green for a simple, yet elegant look. Just a couple of these, surrounded by tea lights, will cr...
White Hydrangea Floral Centerpiece
Bring that countryside, picnic-y element to your party with small woven baskets in your decor. Use them to serve rolls, hold wrapped sandwiches or wrapped serveware. Super-cute and simple, they're also functional when hosting a crowd!
Rectangular Basket with Top Handles | Oriental Trading
For my ambitious party hosts (you know I love you), consider making a picnic dinner for your guests! If entertaining couples, add a couple of sandwiches, containers of fruit and pasta salad, cold roasted vegetables, etc., and have them to greet gues...
Bulk Rectangular Baskets with Top Handles - 12 Pc. | Oriental Trading
Adding height to an appetizer table or dessert table is a great way to create interest and display gorgeous food options. I love the gold finish of this tiered tray, and see this as a perfect complement to a Diner en Blanc party. Think macarons, mi...
LYEOBOH 3 Tier Large Serving Stand Set
Add some extra glow to your party as you celebrate into the evening with these fairy lights. So delicate and with this gorgeous light, placing these around the party will be absolutely magical! They'd also be perfect for placing under the tulle tab...
Hampton Bay Copper Wire LED Starry/Fairy String Light Plug-in NXT-1009
To make the evening clean-up a bit easier, consider this set of dinnerware for your Diner en Blanc affair. The addition of 2 sets of plates, the utensils and cups for water or cocktails really is a great bundle for the evening. And the fact that it...
c&g home Disposable Plastic Wedding Party Supplies Kit Silver OR Gold
Champagne really is a must for a Diner en Blanc party, and these flutes are just what the occasion calls for. The simple shape of these flutes, plus a really fantastic price point means you can serve your bubbly in style. And a good set of flutes is a must in any home!
Libbey Vina Flute Glasses, 8-ounce, Set of 12 - Set of 12
Cloth tablecloths are one of the easiest ways to make your party more than just a backyard barbeque. And for Diner en Blanc, a tablecloth like this brings Parisian sophistication to your gathering. The great part - these tablecloths are still water...
Laurel Solid Texture Water and Stain Resistant Tablecloth
For simple, decorative serveware, the Abigails Fleur De Lis Platter and complementing serveware are perfect for a Diner En Blanc celebration. Light appetizers charcuterie, simple desserts and fruit or veggies can all be served on this multi-purpose ...
Abigails Fleur de Lis Rectangular Platter & Reviews | Wayfair
Mediterranean Escape
This is a party where the food and drinks really are the star of the show, while a few decorative accents make it a real stunner! The fresh, vibrant colors are sure to get guests excited about the evening.
I think I'm going to host a Mediterrean Escape dinner party just so I can order these Macarons! These are an absolute stunner and will truly wow your guests when you serve them with after dinner drinks. Guests will be rushing to take a pic of these...
Italian Blue Lemon Tile Flower Macarons Amalfi Pattern Blue French - Choose Flavors
There is so much to love about this amazing tablecloth pattern. Breezy and elegant, capturing the theme of this party with absolute style and grace. These come in a variety of sizes, too, including table napkins. It will be the linens you reach fo...
Blue Cabana Stripe Lemon Olive Tablecloth, Cotton Twill, Mediterranean Coastal Portuguese Italian Tile Dining Linen
That bright pop of yellow is exactly what you'll want on your dinner or buffet table for this party! Those bright citrus accents are so fantastic for making a statement for your get-together. Another bonus - you can choose from several quantities, ...
8 Sets Blue Tiles Lemon Table Centerpiece Decor - Amalfi Coast Party Decorations
If your party will be taking you into the evening, then this could be THE accent you'll want for your decor! Again, that bright pop of color in the lemon and the greenery is fantastic, and the lights will create a gorgeous glow. So very pretty and ...
Valery Madelyn Summer Lemon Garland for Mantle with Lights, 6FT
Keeping it elegant but still simple is the key to summertime entertaining. I love this complete set of tableware for a Mediterranean party. It beautifully captures the them, while still making it easy to clean up afterwards. And how nice is it to ...
Amalfi Coast Party Decorations - 96 Pcs Blue Tiles Italian Mediterranean Themed Supplies
Chargers are a fantastic way to elevate a dinner table while also being able to take advantage of non-traditional or existing dinnerware you already have. These chargers are really lovely, and when you add a simple white blue or white plate to it, you have an eye-catching, fresh place setting. These also can be used throughout the summer to add a pop of color to any dinner.
Morocco Mediterranean Acrylic Charger Plate | CV Linens™
I think these are a simply divine surprise to share with guests during this party, especially since the day may still be warm when the party starts. So very cute - and practical! And you know they're an Insta-worthy pic opportunity. These are an e...
Vercraft 25 Sets Lemon Folding Fans with Bags
I may have a slight obsession with fans at the moment. ;). Passing along another absolutely gorgeous option for a fan to gift to guests upon arrival. Imagine, one of these gorgeous fans in one hand, and a Limoncello spritz in the other. Let the pa...
Roowest 36 Pcs Amalfi Coast Lemon Fans
Imagine the perfect mezza platter served on a gorgeous serving dish like this! There's so much to love about the color and detail of this platter. Perfect to serve appetizers, roasted vegetables or other side dishes, this will become the focal poin...
Lemon Orchard Oval Platter
These glasses will lend your table that sophisticated look that everyone will adore! Webstaurant offers great quality and great prices, with really great-looking barware. This is definitely one of my favorites - perfect for wine, spritzes and other...
Libbey Linear 13.5 oz. Blue Wine / Cocktail Glass - 12/Case
This candle is one of those little touches that can definitely add to the ambience of your party. Place it on an outdoor table, dessert table or other areas around your party to give that pop of color, and a fresh scent!
Tin Candle - Amalfi del Mar
Garden Soiree
For those with backyard gardens and green spaces, this is just a lovely, relaxing way to spend an evening. The bright colors, accentuated by your own garden beds, is a fantastic way to enjoy a night under the stars. And I'm loving these creative finds for a wonderful party!
The color and variety of this tableware set is just delicious! It is everything your garden soiree needs to delight your guests. And I love a complete set - everything you need for a lovely evening in the garden.
Wayfair.com - Online Home Store for Furniture, Decor, Outdoors & More
Well, I think we've found the perfect garden party centerpiece! This is just so adorable and perfect for a buffet table, dinner table or dessert table. It would also be perfect hanging in your yard, or gracing the steps to your home or patio. Note...
Decorative Hanging Umbrella Planter | Fun Unique Flower Pot | Small Hanging Planter | Outdoor Decor | Plant Lover Gift
Dessert will be on everyone's mind from the moment they enter your garden party! Adorable designs that dress up your desserts and get ooh's and aaah's from your guests. The perfect way to end a perfect party!
Meri Meri Flower Garden Cupcake Kit (Pack of 12)
To create an elegant, elevated vibe, I usually stick to a bit simpler decor - but for a Garden Party, I'm loving this canopy look to set the tone and really create an eye-popping look. This, along with some string lights, is really all you need to s...
Bright Orange Party Decoration Set: Lanterns, Pom Poms, Honeycombs, Paper Fans (24 Pieces)
So pretty to serve with a welcome cocktail or other signature drink, guests will absolutely adore these! Such a great accent for a garden party.
Rose Floral Paper Straws, Garden Party Wedding Theme, Alice Tea Party
Eucalyptus brings such a fresh look to any decor - and with these candle rings included with a grouping of candles on a table, this will create a spectacular glow into the night. These are shown on candlesticks, but if you'd like to keep the candles...
Mixed Eucalyptus Candle Rings, Set of Five
I love the idea of a table setting that 'does all the work.' This one creates a strong statement, brings bright color and sets a lovely garden tone. Add some tea lights around it, and you have a one-of-a-kind table.
Prism Garden Multipurpose Swag
These are the type of accents every party needs to make it feel elevated. Your guests will notice the detailing in these napkins and will be asking where you got them!
Embossed Wildflower Paper Napkins: Party Dinner Decor
Greeting your guests with these lovely fans, or placing them at place settings will be such a welcome favor. The afternoons and evenings will be warm, and these fans both elevate the theme and keep your guests cool into the night. Such a special tou...
Garden Party Folding Hand Fans - 12 Pc. | Oriental Trading
This is THE platter to use for every garden party. And I love that all of the detail is at the edges, so you can pile this up with appetizers and still appreciate the gorgeous pattern. This is going to be another summer go-to, even after the party e...
Large Porcelain Serving Platter - Garden Party
This table runner matches the Rifle Paper platter beautifully. Stunning color, lovely design and perfect for dining and enjoying cocktails in the garden. This is THE find for your party!
Cotton Table Runner - Garden Party
One more Rifle Paper Co. product - but you NEED to check out all of the Melamine options in the vibrant pattern! Great for around pools and patios, this is how you make a garden soiree pop. Pair it with the serving bowl and plates. You and your gu...
Melamine Serving Platter - Garden Party
One click, and you have just about everything you need for a decadent garden party! I just want everything in this collection! And if you're hosting a shower, check out their gift bags, drink ware and other items for guests favors or game prizes. You'll get lost in all of Rifle Paper's garden goodness!
Garden Study Collection | Rifle Paper Co.
New Year's Eve - but Make it Summer
Ok, here me out - NYE in the cold is kind of a drag - so why not throw this party in teh summer, under the night sky?! You'll love bringing this theme to life in the warmth of summertime. Cheers!
You know you can't have a New Year's Eve party without the obligatory NYE top hats, kazoos and tiaras? Even the most elegant of New Year's affairs include these NYE staples. This is a great kit with a lot of options for guests - not too over-the-to...
Gold Legacy New Year’s Eve Party Kit for 25 People
Bring some elegant, but fun lighting to your NYE party with these super-cute disco ball lights. The warm glow will be welcoming to guests, while still creating a lively party atmosphere. I love that they're battery-operated, so you can easily place...
10 LED String Light Garland Silver Disco Mirror Ball Warm White - Battery Operated Event Décor 6ft
These drink stirrers are a really easy but impactful way to create a sense of celebration for your NYE party! Use them in a welcome drink, in other mixed drinks, or in your NYE countdown champagne. So cute and a fun element to your party!
12+ Tinsel Drink Stirrers- Champagne Swizzle Sticks |Gold Black Silver Blush Pink| Wedding New Years Ever Birthday! Sparkly Glitter Firework
These are super-cute and unique napkins that will catch your guests' eye throughout the party. Great for cocktails or desserts, the fringe detailing is fantastic! It's the small details that often make the biggest difference!
New Years Eve Napkins: Gold Fringe, Pop Clink Fizz, Set of 18
To incorporate the theme into this summer party, a runner like this on an outdoor table or picnic table is the perfect accent for the event. It has an air of sophistication and subtle pattern, with a great look perfect for an NYE celebration. Get i...
New Year Table Runner, NYE Champagne and Midnight Clock Pattern, Reusable Festive Dining Decor for NYE Parties
Celebrating NYE in the summertime provide the opportunity to bring some splashes of color to your event, while still keepting it classy. I'm loving the black hats and decor with the touches of neon to give to guests to ring in the “New Year.” You'll have this gorgeous glow at midnight under the stars that no one will forget!
New Year’s Eve Neon Glow Party Kit for 10 — Michaels Keywords: Glow, Party Kit, New Year’s Eve
Decadent Parties' Posts for Inspiration
Looking for more inspiration and ideas for hosting these themes? Here are your resources for making whichever theme you choose a standout affair!
Get all the details on how to brings these themes to life, including food and drink suggetions and other ways to engage your guests.
Five Elegant Summer Party Themes to Elevate Your Outdoor Gatherings
This sangria is just what a garden soiree or elegant evening needs! Great as a welcome drink or simple to serve throughout the evening, it's easy to make and guests will love it!
Pink Grapefruit and Peach Sangria - With a Twist!
These five tasty - and unique - appetizers offer rich, complex flavors sure to delight your guests. Make one, or make them all…they'll all be a hit!
Five Unique Summer Appetizers to Surprise and Delight
Fresh is what summer is all about, and these 10 appetizers take advantage of all summer's goodness. Easy to make and great for parties, you'll find so many option from which to choose.
Ten Irresistible Summer Appetizers to Serve at Your Next Party
This is a classic cocktail just about everyone loves! And this is one of my signature cocktails when I host, too. So perfect for elegant summer gatherings!
The Lemon Drop Martini
Outfits for Airy Elegance
This is THE Mediterranean look for a party with those Amalfi Coast vibes. So cool and polished - gorgeous with a pair of white linen trousers or shorts, this is a stunner!
Porcelain Print Scarf Style Halter Blouse
Such a feminine, well-styled dress, it's gorgeous for any evening event. Light fabric, with lovely detailing on the straps, you'll glide through the evening under the stars.
Garden Ikat Twist Double V Midi Dress
You cannot go wrong with this dress for a Diner En Blanc gathering, or really any evening party. The sweetheart neckline is a sexy little detail - very striking. And yes - it has pockets!
Tie Strap Mixed Media Midi Pocket Dress
Be the center of attention at a gorgeous Garden Party or other elegant evening gathering. Cupshe's dresses never disappoint, and I'm loving the detailing on the waist and skirt. This will quickly become your go-to summer look.
Golden Haze Floral Midi Dress
Ladies, this combination short hemline with longer sleeves is so very elegant and stylish. the browns and creme colors are a subtle natural palette that will complement anyone's tone and look. Wear with wedges to really be a knockout for an evening...
Hedley Dress
Don't miss the back detailing on this dress! Cool, flowy, and just the right amount of interest in the back to make a summer statement at any elegant evening party. Flats or wedges will work perfectly.
The Go To Dress
Don't pass up this buttery yellow midi dress. While unstructured in a lot of ways, it's still figure-flattering. And that neckline - very eye-catching. Don't wait to get this lovely dress.
Striped Bow Poplin Midi Pocket Dress
10 / 10. No notes. Gorgeous!!
Opening Scene Floral Midi Dress
Dresses aren't the only option - an airy, wide-leg pant with a cute top or tank top is the way to enter a summery evening party. I love everything about this style - and I think you will, too!
Pull On Wide Leg Pants in Mosaic Linen Cotton
Look. At. This. This one-shoulder style is so fun for the summer! I adore the matching pants. So breezy and comfy, but is still an elevated look for any evening occasion.
Avery One Shoulder Stripe Top
...and the pants. How cute are these! Love a wide-leg pant for the summer, and this one will do the trick every time. Pair these with strappy sandals, a chunky heel or wedges, and you're party ready!
Anya Stripe Pull On Pant
Don't forget the accessories! Such a cute, attention-getting necklace to complement so many looks.
Palm Pendant Necklace
Layered necklaces are the way to go for summer, and the in look right now. This one is gorgeous, and fantastic for a variety of necklines. Dress up your 'fit with this lovely accessory.
Pearlized Bar Layered Necklace Set
Starfish and pearls - what more could you want for summer! I'm a huge fan of Uno de 50 jewelry, and am adoring this piece (and the other matching items) to create a statement. You'll love everything about this jewelry. I know I do!
Pulsera semirrígida bañada en oro con perlas y estrella de mar
Add a lively pop of color to your summer party attire with this superfun necklace! It will match just about any dress you pull from your closet, and is bound to get you plenty of compliments!
Mila Beaded Necklace
How can you pass this up for summer!? Simply sublime detailing, feminine profile and light linen, It's really a stunner. Also pairs well with both flats or a simple heel.
Weekend Paisley Puff Sleeve Mini Dress in Linen Blend
Oh people - look at this! Gorgeous color and style, and sure to flatter anyone heading out for an evening party under the stars. You will turn heads!
Weekend Printed Full Midi Skirt