Summer Entertaining from IKEA

I was in IKEA the other day and was inspired to write a post on the chic summer party you could throw from all the goodies in the marketplace.

Honestly a party like this:

Amy Atlas

could come straight from IKEA. Here's what you need to buy: 

1. Solar Powered Paper Lantern

2. Snow Ball Light Chain

3. Flatware

4. Cabana Striped Trays

5. Water Hyacinth Placemats

6. Tekla Dish Towel (best dishtowels EVER and could be cute napkins)

7. Sofia fabric by the yard (for your tablecloth)

8. Walmart Ball Jar Packs (for drinking and/or flowers) IN STORES

9. Paper Straws (Etsy)

With a little improvising from Walmart for the ball jars and maybe even some burlap for a table runner or napkin tie, and Etsy for the paper straws, you could throw a chic little outdoor soiree for great price. 

I was also inspired to write this post after last night's Twitter Party with Wayfair hosted by Erika Johnson of Radiant Republic. We were chatting about the key elements to summer entertaining and here are some of the highlights: 

1. Have everything prepared before your guests arrive so you can actually be a hostess and not a chef/waitress

2. Have some fun summer island music on (Use Pandora)

3. Use real plates and linens instead of paper (you can buy the cheapies from IKEA!)

4. Make a signature cocktail for your guests

What are your tips to hosting a great summer party?! Have a great summer cocktail recipe? Favorite radio station on I Heart Radio? Summer recipe?

Please share with us in the comments below!