Stories by LAURA LANGSTON, SARAH MADEWELL, CHRISTINE PERSAUD and KIRA VERMOND

There's just something about an outdoor party. From the food to the activities and more, there's nothing like enjoying beautiful summer weather with family and friends. No matter how big or small the gathering, here are some pointers for a successful event.

"Backyard parties are such a lovely way to bring everybody together, reestablish our friendships and communities—and celebrate togetherness," says Costco member Amanda Douglas, an event planner in Winnipeg.

But don't think that easy-breezy gettogether will be a cinch to pull off at the last moment. At the heart of any fabulous party is a well-constructed plan.

"Give yourself a month to chip away at all the major things on your list: décor, backyard prep, and food and drink prep," says Douglas, who recommends filling the pantry well in advance.

Pick a theme. Themes take a party from so-so to sensational. They don't have to be complicated, either; in fact, simple is better. Try a Hawaiian luau and crack out the tiki lanterns. Host a beer-tasting party and sample some local brews. Dreaming of an Italian garden party theme? Grab a gingham tablecloth and twinkling bistro lights, and you're good to go.

Have ample seating. Ever been to a backyard party without enough seating? Not fun. Give your guests comfortable places where they can sit and eat, rather than perching at the edge of a tippy lawn chair. Outdoor plastic or folding chairs are easy to stack and store when not in use. The same goes for folding tables. Or you can rent them.

"We have a couple of [large] tables we use all the time. I even invested in [tall tables] this year because of the cocktail parties we've thrown at home," says Costco member Renee Patrone Rhinehart, founder and CEO of Party Host Helpers, a party staffing company in Philadelphia.

Make it comfortable. For afternoon parties, have buckets of sunscreen and cold water on hand. Kids can even make folded paper fans for guests at a craft table. If the yard is in full sun, install umbrellas or shade sails.

Evening get-togethers require plenty of bug spray or a handful of cordless mosquito repellers dotting the property. They last for hours. And don't forget baskets of blankets for chilly nights.