UNION, N.J., May 23, 2005 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- At some point, rain has ruined plans for a big backyard get-together. Or maybe you had your dining room set for an elegant party, but the summer weather was just too beautiful to keep your guests inside. Not a problem.
The trick to successful entertaining is flexibility, say the experts at Bed Bath & Beyond. The best way is with multifunctional accessories that can work indoors or outdoors if you or the weather dictate.
Here are some fresh ideas that work both inside and outside:
* Think "out of the bowl" when it comes to serving.
-- Use fabric lined wicker baskets and canvas bins as a unique way
of presenting dry foods like breads, sandwiches and cookies.
-- Fresh fruit for dessert? Hang a mesh multi-level basket from a
tree in the garden or coat rack in the den so guests can "pick"
their own fruit.
-- Clear acrylic tubs filled with ice cubes make for a great wine or
soda presentation and can be used year round. Tint the ice cubes
with food coloring for fun.
* Know your color and style comfort zones.
-- Don't be afraid to go with the color palette you favor inside
your home outside.
-- Black, white and neutral shades can make dramatic statements
against your garden's greenery. And, bright colorful summer
patterns can add freshness to your dining room.
* Formal Inside or Informal Outside?
-- Don't be limited by where the party is when you think about its
presentation - today's acrylic pieces look as clear as glass and
placemats made of bamboo or woven plastics look as elegant on the
patio as they do on a dining room table.
-- Use beautiful table linens on your patio tables to lend an air of
elegance to your dinner party.
-- A three-tiered buffet ensemble used outdoors adds a formal air.
Indoors or out, there are some important things you don't want to forget:
* Set aside a beverage and dessert area. Remember to keep an extra
surge protector extension cord on hand to plug in your coffee urn,
smoothie maker and blender.
* Will guests be looking for the powder room? Continue your
indoor/outdoor theme using fresh soaps, lotions and hand towels in
seasonal colors and patterns.
* And, be prepared for some stay-over company with an extra bed and spa
accessories. No home should be without an EZ-bed and a basket filled
with fresh towels, soaps and terry-cloth slippers for your guests.
When you shop at Bed Bath & Beyond or online at http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com, their wide entertaining assortment can make your summer table inviting no matter where you set it. Remember, whether you bring the outside inside or the inside outside, a great party isn't about location. It's about the special time you and your guests share together.
SOURCE Bed Bath & Beyond
Bari Fagin of Bed Bath & Beyond,
+1-631-420-7050, x5371,
bari.fagin@bedbath.com