The temperature is rising, the sun is setting later, and our social media feeds are being filled with summer-related content.
For many, this also means an uptick in social gatherings and hosting events. Now, some may say a party is a party, but the vibe you get from a summer bash is completely different from what you’d expect of a holiday or winter soiree, and what is required as a host varies as well.

While summer may officially start in June, it is never too early to begin prepping for warm-weather gatherings. Whether you’re a hosting novice or a bonafide party veteran, there are always new and fun ways to amp up your current bag of tricks. For the seasoned party throwers or the experienced hosts among us, here are five ways to take your hosting skills to the next level.

Stick to a theme.

If you think about the most memorable events you’ve been to, they likely had some sort of theme. Picking a theme adds cohesiveness and a level of relatability for your guests, plus it can help foster a community vibe throughout your event.

It also allows you something to plan around, making it easier to build out your shopping list. The theme doesn’t have to be too on the nose, but at the very least, having a color scheme will ensure guests know there was intention behind the event.

Use floral ice buckets.

Traditional ice buckets step aside; custom floral coolers are the latest hosting super tool that is as functional as it is decorative. There is no shortage of DIY tutorials that can help you make a Pinterest-worthy ice bucket, and the basics are pretty simple once you get a mold. Just pour your water and flowers (that match your color theme) into the mold and freeze until solid, and voila! Your chilled drinks will be looking better than ever.

Have food that doubles as decoration.

Following the theme of functionality meets style, having a food display that doubles as decoration is a great way to curate an aesthetically pleasing space for your event. Charcuterie boards are a great way to do this, but any food spread can accomplish this goal.

Play jumbo games.

No matter what you are celebrating with your summer soiree, an activity people can do while waiting for food to be served or while they converse over drinks is a great way to make sure everyone is entertained since it’s impossible to be engaged in conversation with all of your guest at once. This can look like a huge Connect Four or a massive Jenga set. Game on!

Incorporate menus and itineraries for the perfect extra touch.

Menus are a super easy way to up the sophistication of any summer bash. With websites like Canva or Easil, you can create your own custom menu (on theme, of course). This doesn’t mean you have to provide a full-on feast; the menu can simply be a list of the small bites or drinks available.