Throw together a fun party this summer with these tips

When the weather cooperates and the conditions are just right, spending time outdoors with friends and family is tough to beat. And if you love entertaining, there are a few things you can do to make your get together a raging success without much time or money. Sounds like a win-win, right?

When the sun starts to set, summer pests seem to come out in swarms, or at least it feels that way. Keep your family and friends from being eaten alive with bug repelling candles. Citronella candles can be found almost anywhere at this time of year. Burning these candles will keep the bugs away and as it starts to get darker, creating a lovely ambiance. Be sure to keep lit candles out of reach of kids and make sure you place it on a plate or other hard surface to catch any wax spills from getting on linens and furniture.

Playing games is a wonderful way to add some giggles to any gathering, large or small. When it’s a game from your childhood, even better. Twister, Jenga and Yahtzee are just a few games that can be recreated and adapted for outdoor play.

A backyard movie is another fun way to bring everyone together for something a little different. Hang up a while sheet, spread blankets, pillows and comfy chairs on the lawn and settle in for your favorite flick. But what movie would be complete without popcorn? Set up a popcorn bar for guests to customize their favorite salty movie snack. Start out with some buttered popcorn (or caramel or cheese or all three) and then provide individual bags to fill up. Add some yummy toppings like candy, nuts or cheese to really make it special.

The most important thing you can do during these backyard get togethers is have fun. You are creating memories for family and friends, which is more important than the food you served or the minor things that didn’t go as planned.