Here’s how to bring Europe to your backyard this summer
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In need of some summer hosting inspiration? Skip the stress of international travel and savor the tastes and colors of Europe right at home. Poolside siestas, scoops of gelato, and endless aperitivo hours… that sounds like our kind of summer. These easy European themes, decor, and food ideas are here to help you host.
Take a trip to Greece…
It’s All Greek to Me
Mediterranean flavors are perfect for a backyard potluck. Put up a chalkboard menu and turn the house into your own taverna!
More ideas:
Mamma Mia, It's Summer!
Everyone loves a disco night. Invite guests to dress up in their best ’70s look and dance the night away. Wine glass painting doubles as a great party activity and super cute party favor.
More ideas:
- Design your own seashell necklaces
- Bake mini microphone cupcakes
Take a trip to Italy…
Pomodoro Palooza
Honor the star of summer produce with a tomato-themed dinner party. For some budget-friendly table decor, try turning an empty can of tomatoes into a vase.
More ideas:
Postcards from Positano
Encourage guests to wear their best summer linens or make it a pool party to channel bright blue Italian waters.
As an activity, buy a pack of postcards for you and your guests to send to long distance friends. Use sentimental scraps like train tickets and photo strips to turn your postcards into little collages!
More ideas:
- Decorate with pasta made of paper
- Serve lemon jello in real lemon peels
Take a trip to France…
Bonjour Bistro
There’s no better pairing than some brie and baguette! Treat your guests to a glamorous night filled with Parisian charm. Turn wafers into miniature Eiffel Towers to show off your artistic skills.
More ideas:
- Serve up a French fête plate
- Turn pastries into deliciously cute party decor
Soleil Soiree
You and your guests get exclusive access to this beach club! Set up umbrellas in the backyard, serve a round of French 75 cocktails, and you’re in the French Riviera.
More ideas:
Take a trip to Spain…
Tapas & Tinto
Invite guests to bring their favorite appetizer or small plate. Prepare a batch of tinto de verano by mixing equal parts red wine and lemon-lime soda or lemonade. Serving on colorful dishware will only make the meal more beautiful.
More ideas:
Sangria Summer
Grab some stone fruit and citrus from the farmers’ market to put together a sangria station. Pairs perfectly with seafood paella and a sunny afternoon.
More ideas:
Take a trip to Portugal…
Seas the Day
Put together a "seacuterie" board packed with tinned fish for guests to enjoy. Garnish with veggies, crackers, and your favorite dip.
More ideas:
- Make your own sea-shaped butter with these molds
- Add some color with paper fish garlands
Tiles & ’Tinis
There is nothing like crafting with a cocktail in hand. Watercolor designs on cardstock squares for an easy, at-home version of classic Portuguese tiles.
More ideas:
Take a trip to England…
The Great Backyard Bake Off
Challenge your guests to a baking competition. They can submit their favorite British treat and guests can vote for their favorite. Everyone’s a winner when dessert is involved!
More ideas:
- Serve dessert in vintage tea cups
- Baskets filled with lavender make for easy floral arrangements
Pastries & Prosecco
Channel an English countryside summer with tea sandwiches and cakes. Toast with bubbles or a pitcher of iced tea. Try making lavender Earl Grey cookies for a sweet and stunning tea pairing.
More ideas:
- Surprise guests with delicious tea bag cookies
- Repurpose tiered trays to serve lemon wedges, sugar, cream and other tea toppers
Ready to swap plane tickets for party Invitations? Our new favorite summer party designs are here just in time. Want something more casual than an Invitation? Try an Event Page.
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