Stargazing Parties! Edible Table Runners! Here Are the Top Entertaining Trends for Summer

Cute to the point of ’Grammable-ness and neat 'n’ easy to transport, pies of every variety are infiltrating alfresco celebrations this season.

Passed apps? #stuffy. Floral arrangements? #expected. Jazz up this season’s tablescapes with gorgeous, edible centerpieces and runners (think: a cornucopia of summer fruit or never-ending antipasti board).

Basically a cushy, tricked-out swing for grown-ups, this is 2018’s answer to the porch swing. (But, you know, one you can lie down on.)

Get the look: The Porch Swing Company daybed ($1,250)

Nothing elevates a dinner quite like a seating chart and pretty place cards. And this season, it’s all about bringing in garden elements—like inscribed leaves or flower petals.

Get the look: LewesLetteringCo place card ($2)

You know what’s chic? Hydration. Which is why hostesses are increasingly searching for ways to break up the boozing with flavored waters and virgin concoctions, arranged in elevated presentations.

Get the look: Williams Sonoma dispensers (from $64)

Dairy bloat: It’s a real thing. Which is why it's particularly fitting that bruschetta bars have replaced cheese plates as the photogenic, crowd-pleasing appetizer of choice for bikini season.

Looking for an unconventional BBQ hook? Try a cosmos-themed dinner party replete with starry-themed cocktails, cupcakes and of course a cozy blanket setup for guests to spot the big dipper.

Another trendy party trope: Casual, beer garden-themed day parties. Bring on the bratwursts, grainy mustards and kegs! (Lederhosen dress code, optional.)

The party sweet of summer? This playful love child of your favorite breakfast and your favorite dessert. Psst: The more toppings the merrier, people.