Let’s start with what not to do! Be careful when setting out food: hosting people should leave any catered items for their guests to enjoy, as well as offer drinks that don’t require ice or water bottles, like lemonade or fruit punch. Place a cash box with a card in it near the kitchen. Have guests leave their full dishes, not just the empty ones, and keep track of everything that’s been eaten, so you’ll know if any leftovers are needed. Understand these essential hosting tips.

Be sure to ask everyone who’s coming about the allergies and other needs for drinks and food before it gets too late to do so. Prepare your inflatable or cushioned furniture, tables, chairs, etc., ahead of time for ease of use. If you’re having a BBQ, have your host contact neighbors whose large dogs won’t bother anyone else so they know this is happening on their property.

Have your host put together a to-do list of what needs to be done by the guests. This can include setting up the pool table, grilling the food for your BBQ, or making sushi and playing some music. Let everyone know there’s a change in plans and that they should keep an eye out so they can help if needed. If it’s not a picnic, have everyone bring their bags and maybe even their containers in case the ones you’ve provided run out.

Have everything you’ll need before guests arrive, so there are no last-minute run-ins with suppliers. When you give out the party invitations, include instructions, so everyone knows where the pool is, how to enter your home and where they need to park.

Be sure that everyone knows any rules you’ve made up beforehand. Make sure there are no signs or blankets on the furniture, as these can be messy and keep people from using them if they have a slip-and-fall accident. Your patio should also be clear of anything dangerous, like plants or furniture, so your guests can enjoy it without worrying about getting hurt. If you have a pool at your home this summer, ensure the water isn’t too deep for anyone without life jacket for added safety in case anyone falls in.

Make sure that all of the furniture has been moved or covered if it’s not going to be used in case anyone spills something on it. If you’re planning a summer party, make sure that you have ample parking and accessible transportation. You’ll also want to include any other information that your guest may need at the bottom of your invitation so they’ll be informed ahead of time.

Remember, make sure you have a cash box or card holder with change that guests can use as well as balloons and cups so they can enjoy their beverages outside if they like. Make sure that there are towels for everyone so they can dry themselves off after their swim in your pool if needed.