Your how-to guide to outdoor entertaining

(BPT) – The end of cold weather signals the change of seasons, a move from indoor to outdoor activities and the perfect time to throw a great party. But before eagerly sending out those first invites, take a few moments to prepare for your upcoming event by following these three easy steps to hosting a fantastic summer soiree:

1. Pick a great location

Location, location, location. Just as when you are buying or selling a home, location plays the most important part of throwing a great outdoor party. Think of your outdoor space as an extension of your home. Investing in a beautiful and functional deck provides a location sure to please for many upcoming years and parties. Commercial products offer party planners many amazing options including low-maintenance plastic composite boards that mimic expensive hardwoods, like the Envision series by TAMKO Building Products, Inc. ‘Envision’s dramatic color variation and random wood-grain patterns across the entire deck is truly unique to the industry,’ said Bill Koll, TAMKO director of decking and railing.

2. Enjoy the weather

This may seem obvious but no one’s going to feel like joining the Conga line at your outdoor party if its 40 degrees and raining. So do your research beforehand. Mother Nature can be fickle and there’s always a chance for inclement weather as long as the event is outside but you can greatly reduce your chances of having to cancel or relocate by simply looking at an extended forecast.

3. Add some color

Nothing says summertime like bright color. Think oranges, yellows and reds to give an added feeling of warmth. This can be done in the form of a brightly-colored shade umbrella, some well-placed patio cushions, festive patio lights or even last-minute painted flower pots spread liberally over the deck. You can also impress your guests by incorporating Pantone’s color of the year, Marsala, into your deck party decor for a fresh, trendy ambiance.

For more ideas on how to create a fresh and inviting outdoor entertaining space, visit http://www.tamko.com/Decks-Docks-Railing/EverGrain.