Outdoor Entertaining Tips

Published July 20, 2012

Every year I like to pass on some great outdoor entertaining tips that friends and readers pass on to me.

Here are a few of my favorites.

Grapevine Skewers

For a contemporary twist on an old idea try using natural, grapevine skewers next time for your outdoor barbeque. Simply purchase a 14 inch or 16 inch grapevine wreath that is untreated with any laquers or stains. With a pair of pruning shears, cut the vine into 12-14 inch pieces. Rinse the skewers of any dirt and soak them in cold water for 20 minutes.Thread your meat or vegetables on to the skewers. Grill as desired.

Ice Bucket

To chill wine or champagne quickly, fill an ice bucket with ice and add a large handful of salt. Chill the wine by rolling it around in the ice making sure to hold the neck of the bottle between your palms and move to circulate the salt.

Candle Removal

For easy removal of old candles in votives try this handy trick. Place the candle holders in the freezer for four hours then remove the wax candle.  No mess and you won’t risk scratching the glass.

Wasp Control

To keep those pesky wasps from ruining your evening meal outside, simply blow up a brown paper bag and tie with a string. Hang the bag from your patio umbrella or  awning. The premise behind this idea is that the wasps will be fooled into thinking the bag is a nest and will therefore avoid the area.

Floating Candles

These little versatile candles can be used everywhere. Place them in your birdbath outside for arriving guests to admire. Use them as a centerpiece in a large bowl surrounded by rose petals.

Salad Keeper

Keep your salad greens fresh on a hot night with this little trick. Place your salad bowl in another bowl of salted ice water and toss the salad occasionally. Cover the salad to prevent unwanted flying visitors.

Tablecloths 

To prevent your tablecloth from flying around in the wind, simply insert a loonie or toonie into the hem of the four corners. You will need to remove a few stitches in the hem of the tablecloth ahead of time.