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When summer arrives, our favourite thing is hosting back yard parties. But how to entertain without spending hours at the grill (we hate to sweat) or all night in the kitchen (we mustn’t miss out on the gossip)?

Easy! Whether you have a sprawling garden, a city patio or a bijoux balcony, here are some ideas that will have your friends talking for weeks:

Set the Scene - Simple details that will transform your outdoor space into the perfect backdrop:

* For a rustic look, put fresh flowers in mason jars. If you have a long table, try a row of three or four jars for effect

* If you have space, hang lanterns from a tree, or a string of tiny white lights along a fence. We love the String Solar Lights from Rittenhouse which are solar powered

* For a striking, modern centrepiece try a few white hydrangeas, or a single orchid plant

* For a more vintage feel, use a roll of floral wallpaper as a table runner

* Everyone loves lovely glassware. Anthropologie has beautifully quirky options, and West Elm offers a great recycled range.

* Soundtrack for the evening? We love the Mezzanine de l’Alcazar albums when we’re feeling hip, Billie Holiday when we’re feeling mellow, and anything Cuban when we fancy a dance


Rittenhouse Solar Lights in Amber, West Elm recycled carafe and tumblers

On the Menu – themed menus will always be a conversation starter. Just pick your favourite cuisine!

* For a really simple meal, play French and serve fresh baguette with your favourite cheese and wine

* For a Spanish soirée, serve your favourite tapas and a few jugs of sangria

* If you’re feeling brave, homemade sushi will always impress

* An Italian rustic banquet (think artisan bread, cold meats, pâté and olives) served on wooden bread boards works perfectly with a few bottles of Italian red wine

* Break out the cocktails! We’re fans of Jamie Oliver’s recipes – cute, inventive and bound to impress

What makes a backyard bash a hit for you?

by Jo Rivard