Keep the menu simple

Offer a single main dish, a couple of tried-and-true sides, some finger foods and a seasonal dessert (visit carolinacountry.com for inspiration). Tea, lemonade and water are all you really need, but if that feels too basic, offer a flavor station with fresh fruit like berries and lemon wedges, flavored syrups and other sweeteners. Select neutral white and red wines, and one or two beer varieties.

Set a thoughtful theme

Subtle color, centerpieces and serving pieces are all places you can inject some thematic vibes without investing too much time or money. Let your theme influence any games, activities and music you plan to have.

Anticipate guests’ needs

Consider needs like seating, where you’ll keep extra food for quick refills, and essentials like more toilet paper in the guest bath. Also anticipate accidents like spills and have supplies ready to efficiently correct inevitable incidents. Remember to plan for extra trash bins, and if guests will be congregating outdoors, provide extra sunscreen, bug spray and fans.

Organize entertainment

Depending on the purpose of the party, your entertainment might be clear, but if it’s a casual gathering, board games and backyard games are almost always a hit. Inject some musical fun with karaoke, and if you’ll have kids in attendance, provide age-appropriate options for shorter attention spans, too.