Summer Backyard Enjoyment

MISSION, KS--(Marketwired - Jun 12, 2013) - (Family Features) There is nothing better than gathering family and friends for a fun, outdoor get-together. With a few decorating tricks and entertaining ideas, anyone can become the "host(ess) with the mostess."

Whether your outdoor space is a sweeping, lakeside veranda or a tiny balcony with parking lot views, embrace it. To help Americans get the most out of their outdoor spaces and enjoy the summer season, OFF! has partnered with lifestyle and entertaining expert Katie Brown. Together, they have the tips and tricks to help ensure you're prepared this summer for any outdoor gathering -- be it a casual family dinner or a summer party with the neighbors.

First, a little preparation goes a long way. In the recent Summer Savvy Survey conducted by the makers of OFF!, 80 percent of respondents said getting a bug bite and running out of food are the two most annoying things that could ruin an outdoor party. Before heading outside, spot treat your backyard with a product designed to protect it from a variety of insects like mosquitoes, ants and fleas, such as the OFF! Bug Control Backyard Pretreat. Simply attach it to a garden hose and apply to your trees, shrubs, ornamentals and structures. Once applied, OFF! Bug Control Backyard Pretreat kills 110 types of insects for up to eight weeks on nonporous surfaces.

For a welcoming atmosphere, Brown always suggests incorporating flowers. Loosely arrange cut flowers in vases or salvaged bottles to enhance the ambiance of any summer get-together. Potted plants are inviting and can serve many purposes, such as welcome signs, house numbers and bird feeders, so get inspired and have fun getting creative.

When it comes to prepping your outdoor living space for summer gatherings, remember that the tricks you use inside your home to make a space more cozy and inviting also work well outside. Cluster seating around a coffee table then add side tables for plates of food and glasses. Anchor the grouping with a beautiful outdoor rug. Then amp up the fun factor with vibrant hues that mimic the colors in the surrounding landscapes. Why not poppy red pillows or a sunflower yellow tablecloth? Keep the decor light, bright and festive.

Lighting is another key consideration. Make sure there is plenty of lighting in the areas where your guests will gather as well as along walking paths or driveways. Lighting can also create a special festive feeling at any party. There is something truly magical about thousands of tiny white lights surrounding an outdoor space. For ambiance, string several strands of lights through trees and bushes or along wooden decks.

Clusters of candles should also be placed on small tables near where the guests will be lounging. Make sure to include an OFF! Citronella Candle or two. They add several hours of ambiance and style.

If you're hosting a planned event, preparation for any type of weather is important. Try to anticipate things your guests may need to be comfortable during the party. Fill up wicker baskets, or "pamper pots," and set them near various seating areas. It's a thoughtful touch guests will really appreciate. Items to consider are:

• Sunscreen: Even if the day is cloudy, both kids and adults will appreciate having an extra bottle of sunscreen on hand.
• Mosquito repellent: The OFF! Clip-On gives your guests personal protection against mosquitos so they can stay comfortable throughout the event.
• Light blankets: The success of a party is often judged by how late people linger. Roll up a few light blankets and tuck them in the basket in case evening brings a chilly drop in temperature.
• Umbrellas: Whether guests use them for an unexpected rainshower or to shield themselves from the sun, umbrellas are a thoughtful touch.
• Flashlights: A little extra illumination may come in handy during late night festivities. The kids might find flashlights make for a great game of tag.

If you're hosting a planned event such as a birthday party or holiday BBQ, consider offering a fun take-home treat. As the party winds down, fill a small beach bag with any extra supplies, such as flashlights, sunscreen, insect repellent, bubbles and sidewalk chalk, for each family. Your guests will go home with great memories, lots of pictures of your spectacular soiree and a few goodies for their next outdoor adventure.

For more information about OFF! products, and more of Katie Brown's tips, visit www.keepbugsoff.com and www.Facebook.com/OFF.

Keeping your guests entertained
Provided by entertainment expert Katie Brown

When planning outdoor gatherings, don't let your guests lounge for too long. Get them up and interacting with a few fun games and activities provided by Katie Brown. Plan an assortment of activities designed to engage all ages with these tips:

• A bubble refill station: Engaging activities are fun for kids -- they can blow big bubbles in the yard while the parents watch and mingle.
• A cookie decorating station: Create a theme for the party and have guests colorfully decorate cookies to reflect the party theme.
• Classic picnic games: What outdoor gathering is complete without a round of croquet, horseshoes or bocce ball? Consider a classic race game, such as the three-legged race, potato sack race or wheelbarrow race.
• Photobooth fun: Hang a large vintage picture frame from the branch of a sturdy tree. Supply a bucket of props and disposable cameras so guests can create a memento that will last a lifetime.
• Water balloon toss: Have guests take turns throwing water balloons in bowls set up at varying distances. The winner is the person who lands the most unbroken balloons in the bowls.

If you plan to give guests more than just the thrill of victory as a prize, aim for a fun summertime theme. Give out beach towels, pool toys, sidewalk chalk, bubbles, kites, coolers or beach bags. These also make great party favors.

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