7 Ways to Keep Guests Cool at a Summer Party

Hosting a summer party means you can take advantage of your outdoor space—whether that’s a pool, fire pit, or lawn perfect for oversized yard games—but it also puts you at the risk of facing weather that's almost too sunny and warm.

"I love an al fresco soirée, but heat and humidity are challenging foes as we head into the high summer months," says Brenna Gilbert of Festive & Co. "Whether your guests are sensitive to heat or simply prefer not to sweat through their nice summer dresses, take a cue from great southern entertainers for an effortless outdoor get togethers."

Embrace the Shade

Add umbrellas, set up a gazebo, providing seating on the porch, or rent a tent—anything to give your guests more shade. "Any respite from the sun is welcome," says Gilbert. "Make sure you're giving your guests the option to be in the shade, whether under umbrellas, a few well-placed trees (if you have the budget, you can rent these for your shade-less patio) or a leafy pergola."

If you can't add overhead shade to your yard, offer personal sun protection. "Options like umbrellas, parasols, and hand fans can be wonderful additions to keep your guests cool, calm, and collected at an outdoor gathering," says event planner Michelle Norwood.

Create a Breeze

The best way to get air moving outside is with ceiling fans, though stand-up fans will also work, says Gilbert. "Look up at a tropical hotel—they all have outdoor fans for a reason," she says. One note of caution: "Mind the speed—while it can be tempting to crank it up, you don't want to blow food, décor, or clothes away." Gilbert also recommends personal hand fans set at each place or offered in baskets around your site. "Not only does it feel genteel, but people feel in control of their own temperature destiny," she says.

Use Misters (the Right Way)

While the idea of setting up a mister to provide cool, damp air to your guests may sound efficient, this only works at certain types of parties. "Misters are great for a pool party, crawfish boil, or picnic," says Norwood, who advises skipping them for anything more formal. Gilbert agrees: "Misters are too hard on the hair I spent all morning styling," she says.

But again, individual options, like the pocket-sized sprays from Evian, can be a useful compromise. "They're easy on the makeup and nice for guests to take home," says Gilbert.

Swap Out Seat Cushions

If your outdoor furniture or dining table seating boasts synthetic seat covers, trade them for natural materials that allow better airflow. "There’s a reason why linen, cotton, and seersucker are such a hit in summer wardrobes—they are soft and breathable," says Gilbert. "The same goes for outdoor seating. I steer away from synthetics, plastics, and metals and lean into soft natural wickers, woods, and generous natural throw pillows."

Consider Your Layout

Help guests beat the heat by carefully considering where you place both conversational and dining areas. "While it's nice to keep your resident grill master company, it's hard to be seated directly next to that wood fire on a 90-degree day," says Gilbert. Add seats in shaded areas and near fans, and then turn them to face away from the sun, so guests aren’t shading their eyes in discomfort during your gathering, says Norwood.

Avoid Mid-Afternoon Parties

Unless there's a reason why your party truly needs to take place in the middle of the day—to accommodate out-of-town guests, perhaps, or to fall directly after the swim team championships—opt for entertaining during a cooler part of the morning or evening. "Hosting an outdoor event at noon in the middle of the summer is not the best idea," says Norwood. "Hosting your gathering later in the day will provide a more pleasant atmosphere for your guests."

Serve Cold Foods and Drinks

Two of the biggest mistakes a host can make at a summer party are offering a too-heavy menu and skimping on the drinks. "On a hazy, hot, and humid day, no one wants a baked lasagna," says Gilbert. "Shift instead to composed, easy summer salads, fun watermelon granita, and cold fried chicken picnics."

Norwood agrees: "If you are planning an outdoor event, keep the food light and easy to eat—two-bite options are your best bet, and add in fruit and Prosecco pop cocktails that are fun and refreshing.” Add self-serve beverage stations for lemonade, iced tea, and, of course, water.