Host the Perfect Summer Festa

Summer was made for backyard BBQs, beach and pool days and gelato eaten with Loacker wafers (specifically made to be used instead of spoons!).

Now that my porch string lights are up, furniture is assembled, and grill is fired up, I am excited to officially kick off summer! I’ve partnered with Loacker to share my top five tips on hosting a delicious and nutritious summer soiree.

1.Build apps around in-season produce: Hor’ dourves are a summer soiree must and I like to focus on colorful, in-season fruit and veggieshere. Not only does it make the spread look pretty, it’s nutritious and willkeep my guests feeling good. A fruit and veggie tray with different dips is a must but I also like to make my own produce-forwards apps like caprese bites, cucumber crostini and melon-wrapped prosciutto.

2. Hydration station: The key to a successful summer festa is having plenty of beverage options. I keep chilled white wine and Rose on hand but also like to make up a mixed drink for guests to try whether that be a sangria, spiked punch or kombucha cocktail. Don’t forget the H2O! I recommend a large pitcher of chilled, fruit infused water for guests to help themselves.

3. Have two main course options: As a dietitian, I have a lot of veggie-loving friends with meat-eating boyfriends and husbands. This means, I definitely like to have two options for my guests so everyone is fed.

4. Cool summer treats: Cool and refreshing treats are a nonnegotiable during summer in the south. Enjoy gelato the way Italians do – with a premium Loacker wafer. Fun fact – wafers were specifically made to be used instead of spoons and make for the perfect gelato pairing. I especially love the lemon Loacker wafers with vanilla gelato – so refreshing and so summer! Loacker Wafers are never made with any artificial flavorings, colorings, preservatives or hydrogenated fats.

5. Create ambiance: If you are hosting outdoors, you can’t go wrong with some string lights, tea lights and music to set a friendly mood. Make sure there are plenty of places for people to sit and mingle while enjoying the best season of them all!