Summer time to me has meant spending time with those that bring me joy. I love planning and host events rather large or small because I feel that they show a level of caring that a lot of people don't get. The thought and time that goes into planning events can be difficult but trust me, it doesn't have to be. Today I am sharing with you 5 different events that you can host in comfort of your backyard or inside your home. 

1. Picnic with Friends

I believe that food and drinks are the core of what brings together family or friends so why not plan a cute outdoor picnic with some of your closet friends this summer. Everybody bring a dish and a drink to share. Pack a few blankets and/or lawn chairs and hit the closet park or even hit the backyard for a grand time. Be sure to bring alone a bluetooth speaker and some games to keep the entertainment going throughout the gathering. If you are looking for some great picnic snacks, I suggest a pasta salad, mini sandwiches or a fruit tray. All scream summer and are great to share. For drinks maybe a homemade lemonade or even a nice summer wine. I promise this will be a good time. 

2. Sip and Paint

Sip and paints became really popular a few years back and I have loved them ever since but to keep things small and sweet host a sip and paint at your home or even in your backyard. This is such a cost effective event to throw. You can get most of the supplies such as paint, brushes and the canvases from your local dollar store or craft store which always have sales and coupons. If you look up coloring pages you can even print them to the canvases making it easier for your guest to paint. Ask everybody to bring a snack to share and their favorite bottle of wine. I am planning to host one this summer and can't wait to see how it turns out. 

3. Outdoor Movie Night

This one is good for families or friends. Rent or purchase an outdoor protector which can be found on Amazon for a reasonable price. Ask your guest to bring lawn chairs or if you are feeling fancy you can provide sitting. There is super cute blow up furniture that you can find on Amazon as well. You want to take it to the next level, of course snacks are needed. Pop some popcorn and serve in the popcorn containers you can find online or your local dollar store. Pick up candy boxes and even serve nachos and hotdogs from a self made concession stand. This really have the neighborhood talking for sure!

4. Happy Hour

If it is one thing I miss the most about going into the office it is after work activities with my favorite co-workers better known as HAPPY HOUR!! Happy hour is how I use to get through the week sometimes being to have tapas and drinks with my work friends was everything that I needed after a long stressful day so just because we aren't in the office, it doesn't mean we can't happy hour! Don't feel like mix and serving the drinks, I have just the thing for you. My friends over at Tippy Tap Co. will have all your mobile drinks needs covered. Tippy Tap Co. is a mobile bar service in the Atlanta area. They offer a 6 tap vintage mobile bar that will services your party or event with your choice of beer, wine, champagne, mix drinks, custom mixed drinks or even iced coffee. The possibilities are endless! This is perfect for an happy hour event after you book them all you have to worry about is light snacks or your favorite tapas.

5. Taco Tuesday

Who doesn't love tacos right? And even though tacos are great everyday, they are extra great on Tuesday so why not plan a Taco Tuesday for a few friends. Tacos and margaritas for everybody. For me, tacos are so customizable which is why I love them so much. You can have vegan, vegetarian and of course meat filled options for your guest. All the fixings can be easily picked up from your local grocery store or if you have a favorite taco spot they might supply the fixings and their salsa for a gathering. This can be done inside or outside which I still appreciate during this times. 

There you have it! 5 ways to take the party outside (or inside if that's your thing) this summer. With us being inside for a year, I want to be sure that I take full advantage of summer 2021 and the rest of year. Spending time with those that I love and care for the most. If you have any other ideas please leave them below in the comments because I would love to hear them.