8 Affordable Tips for Your Next Outdoor Party

It's all about the beverages, baby! Fruit-infused water is always a good look, and you can't go wrong with strawberries, lemons, cucumbers, or mint. But switch it up just a little bit! Think outside the dispenser, and try fruits like blackberries, kiwifruits, or mangoes for an unexpectedly refreshing thirst-quencher.

Variety is the spice of life! And while that applies to the snacks you serve, it applies to the bowls, too. Who says you have to put out four from the same set? Mismatch on purpose to keep your picnic table exciting. But don't be afraid to match your snacks to your bowls! Green bowls are great for veggies, white bowls for popcorn, red bowls for fresh berries, and so on.

Start with these Better Homes & Gardens Indigo Swirl Bowls, Blue, Set of 6. From $22.56.

The party's outside, and you want to keep it that way. No need to run back to the fridge inside when you can store any and all beverages in a charming steel bucket that's sure to keep everything cool, from juice boxes to beers. We like to keep a few frozen ice pops in there, too. They're great for the kids, or they can be chopped up and added for sweetness to your favorite adult beverage.

Better Homes & Gardens Ice Bucket. From $7.94.

Nothing screams "fiesta!" like a fun tablecloth. Gone are the days of the plain white tablecloth; make a statement on your table with fun colors, patterns, and designs the whole party will want to gather around.

Better Homes & Gardens Multi-Stripe Table Cloth, 70", Round. From $11.88.

Welcome your guests at the door and at the serving table. Set up a chalkboard -- we think this Better Homes & Gardens frame adds a nice rustic touch -- with a welcome message to guests or your favorite inspirational quote. Maybe something like: "Friendship isn't a big thing, it's a million little things." Your friends will feel right at home in an instant!

Better Homes & Gardens Macro 5" x 7" Picture Frame, Brown, Set of 4. From $17.93.

If your pals will be hanging out on the patio all night long, we love the look of string lights. Keep the laughing going under these easy-to-hang lights that are perfect for outdoor spaces. With the lights, the moon, and maybe a candle or two on the table, you can set the perfect mood for a summer night.

Better Homes & Gardens Glass Edison String Lights, 10 Count. From $12.

The right plates can be the life of the party. That's right -- put your dinnerware on display and show off that set! The Grey Color Dipped 12-Piece Dinnerware Set looks delicious with or without food on top of it. And during the week, you can glance at your favorite dishes to help get you excited for the weekend's festivities.

Better Homes & Gardens Color Dipped 12-Piece Dinnerware Set in Grey. From $34.84.

Switch up the silverware! Don't worry when a fork from one set or a spoon from another goes missing. Just like meeting new friends at a party, group new silverware together, too! Plus, any spoon will look luxurious when placed on a silk placemat. Try Better Homes & Gardens Teal Silk Placemats for a chic touch to your shindig.

Better Homes & Gardens Teal Silk Placemats, Set of 4. From $13.88.