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Hand sanitizer -

Not only is this a great preventative measure against the spread of germs, it's also great for your guests to clean their hands without having to go to the bathroom all the time.

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Scent your charcoal -

You can use herbs, fruits, and spices to create a nice ambiance. Adding fresh rosemary, cinnamon sticks, citrus, or even anise pods to your charcoal will make everything smell nicer.

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Keep mosquitoes away -

Strategically place bug zappers around your backyard and have some repellent at hand if things get out of control.

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Lighting -

Hanging string lights will transform your backyard and give it a beautiful summer party atmosphere. Try it!

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Cool wine -

Not one for wine purists, but a fun way to have a drink on a hot summer's day. Just drop an popsicle into your glass of wine and enjoy the refreshing sweetness!

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Playlist -

Create your own playlist, but share it with everyone who will attend the party so they too can contribute with their favorite summer tunes.

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Serve tomato tulips -

Impress guests with these tomatoes filled with garlic-herb cheese. Attach them to trimmed green onions, and voila!

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Use real dishware -

Paper ones can be handy when it comes to doing the dishes, but nothing beats the real thing. They're not flimsy, plus, they work and look so much better.

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Foldable chairs -

A staple at any good outdoor party, the foldable lawn chair can make your backyard the coolest laid-back spot in the neighborhood.

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Mosaic -

Forget your regular fruit salad. Instead, cut fruit into cubes and present them on a plate, just like this. Your guests will be impressed by the colorful mosaic.

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Serve a summery dessert -

A fruity summer dessert is always a winner. You can't go wrong with a cheesecake, for instance.

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Wine cubes -

Want to keep your glass of wine cool for longer? Add some ice cubes made with that specific wine! You can also add the wine cubes to sparkling water to make it a light, cool drink.

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Candles -

Place candles in birdcages for the ultimate vintage party feel. You can also fill them up with flowers and even use one as a centerpiece.

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When life gives you lemons... -

...make lemonade, right? Refreshing homemade lemonade is cheap, easy to make, and it tastes of summer!

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Mix fruit with feta cheese -

The sweet juiciness of the fruit balances perfectly with the richness and saltiness of the traditional Greek cheese.

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Freeze fruit cubes -

You can easily freeze fruits such as berries whole, or mash them and add some fruit juice or tea. And if you're looking for an alcoholic alternative, white wine will work great.

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Create a picnic area -

Throw blankets, rugs, pillows, and more in an area. Some people just prefer to chill closer to the ground.

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Pasta salad -

Get adventurous with your pasta salad—or better: salads. Have a few different options available on the table. Play around with different veggies and dressings.

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Sangria -

Sangria instantly turns any summer party into a fiesta! But don't just stick to the classic red wine sangria. There are plenty more recipes out there.

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Slushy time -

Fruity slushies work great at parties. All you need is ice, water, frozen fruit (of your choice), and frozen limeade to make them.

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Guacamole -

You can't go wrong with guacamole at any type of party, summer ones included. Just make sure you make your own or buy a homemade dip from somewhere you know and trust.

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Silverware -

Grab a few mason jars and decorate them with ribbons or whatever materials you have at hand. Place your silverware in them.

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Granita is a winner -

This Sicilian frozen dessert not only is fresh and delicious, but it's also easy to make. The one pictured is made with water, sugar, and watermelon. Freeze the mixture, and it's ready to serve.

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Hot dogs -

If you're throwing a summer party, a barbecue is likely in the cards. If you're making hot dogs, play around with different toppings. Your guests will be impressed!

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Cocktails -

Make a selection of delicious summery cocktails, like the classic Moscow mule. Other alternatives include Caipirinha, Mojito, and Cuba Libre, among others.

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Pizza -

Pizza can be a rich comfort food, but it can also have a light summery vibe. Just top it with fresh ingredients such as cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.

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Ice-cream sandwich bar -

How many summer parties have you been to that had ice-cream sandwich bars? Get some cookies or waffles, ice cream, and toppings. Guests will love the chance to create their own ice-cream sandwiches.

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Hang a swing -

This will instantly become the hotspot of your backyard–people will gather around it like it's a magical throne.

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Float candles and flowers -

These are easy to create and look amazing at any outdoor summer party.

Sources: (Good Housekeeping) (Chatelaine) (ELLE Decor)

See also: Tips to get your backyard ready for summer

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