The Essentials For a Chic Outdoor Soiree
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Party Buckets
Yeah, you can still fill up an Igloo cooler with ice by the picnic table, but why not put out some wine or carafes of mixers in one of these fancy silver buckets? Love the oversized party bucket, it would come in handy more often than you think.
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Placemats
Let's all agree to abandon the notion that all outdoor linens need to be beach or fish themed, no matter how far the nearest body of water is. These colorful placemats will make a splash without sea imagery. For something a little easier on the budget with a stylish DIY element, check out this tutorial from Positively Splendid.
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DIY Candles
The price for this set of three candles is $35 but that's only if you have to buy the floating candles ($19.99 for a set of 12) and set of three vases ($14.99) but I'm betting you have versions of these items in your home already. I love candlelight outdoors and incorporating twigs into this arrangement from TheFamilyCEOBlog.com makes it all the more fitting. I like to arrange a few candles on any available surface around the yard — tables, low walls, garden benches, etc.
DIY Candle Project, about $35
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A Signature Cocktail
I think every party should have a signature cocktail and summer cocktails are so much fun. There's so many refreshing summer drinks you can easily twist into a cocktail, like lemonade, which serves as an inspiration for this Lavender Lemondrop Martini from Ruemag.com. By having a signature cocktail along with beer and wine you can save on having a full bar.
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Audio
Sometimes tech isn't so sophisticated on the aesthetic front, but this portable turntable and MP3 player has sexy vintage appeal. There's pretty much nothing more romantic and Gatsby-esque as playing vinyl in the moonlight. But it's obviously essential to have the option of plugging in your iPod as well. This sleek system does both.
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Chic Lawn Games
Lawn games feel a little bit Hamptons, a little bit Gatsby, and therefore totally on trend, as well. Go totally Heathers and check out this Franklin Expert Croquet Set, $89.99. If your group is still transitioning out of your beer pong phase, croquet can make for a fun drinking game that won't make you think of the frat house.
