Martha Stewart: Party alfresco without all the risko

By Martha Stewart

THERE ARE many reasons to throw open your doors and gather friends for an outdoor party. But given the logistics involved in planning even an informal affair, there are just as many excuses not to entertain. These tried-and-true strategies will help make your soirees run smoothly, from setup to cleanup.

AN OUTDOOR HOME FOR DISHES: Station an armoire on a covered patio, or clear a few shelves in the garage, to hold items devoted to alfresco dining. Affordable, unbreakable, brightly hued enamelware, sturdy flea-market finds or eco-friendly reusable bamboo plates are good to have on hand, as are glasses, utensils and candles.

SMARTLY DRESSED TABLES: Typically used on chaise and chair cushions, fabrics designed for outdoor use make attractive, all-weather table coverings and come in vibrant colors and patterns. Also try vinyl-coated oilcloth, which can be wiped clean with little effort.

GET A HEAD START: Tackle grill-related tasks more than just a few minutes ahead of time. Stock up on charcoal or refill the propane tank a week before. Clean and season the grill rack the morning of your party, and place a table nearby, complete with the various grilling tools and serving platters you'll need.

CREATIVE LIBATIONS: Let partygoers customize their cocktails with flavored simple syrups. Bring one cup of water and one cup of sugar to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar completely. Remove from heat, and add the flavoring of choice: the zest of one orange, a small bunch of mint, a few rosemary sprigs or 8 ounces fresh ginger, peeled and sliced. Let steep for 30 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, and discard solids. Chill in an airtight container. Serve alongside seltzer, iced tea, and liquor, such as vodka, gin or rum.

COMFORT ZONE: Run a fan near your dining area to keep mosquitoes at bay - and keep your guests cool, too. You may also want to fill a container, such as a flowerpot or basket, with bottles of insect repellent and sunscreen.

LET IT SHINE: Enjoy candlelight on breezy evenings by using hurricane lanterns or jam jars to shield the flames.

HOMEGROWN DECOR: Use foliage from the yard to create centerpieces. Flowering or fruiting branches look elegant atop a table, as do fern fronds and sculptural leaves arranged in jars.

SAY YES TO HELP: Hours before the party, jot down a list of last-minute tasks. Use it to delegate projects when friends offer to lend a hand. Gather whatever is needed, such as matches to light candles or plates to set the table, and have everything at the ready. Also assemble a few spare serving vessels and utensils for dishes that guests may bring.

AVOID A BOTTLENECK AT THE BAR:Create multiple beverage stations so guests can get a refill without waiting. Galvanized tubs, colorful enamel buckets and planters work perfectly. Place an assortment of drinks in each bin if they're destined for different locations throughout the yard. Or fill each container with a single type, such as imported beer, white wine or bottled water. With ribbon or twine, tether an opener to a handle of each bin.

RELAXED PROTOCOL: Informal gatherings, planned weeks ahead or convened at a moment's notice, don't require traditional invitations or the attendant etiquette. Spread the word via e-mail or phone, and check in a few days before with those who haven't confirmed.

NO-MESS MEALS: When getting ready for barbecues, clambakes and other hands-on occasions, set out damp paper towels or cloths, sprinkled with lemon juice and rolled, to remedy sticky fingers. For easy cleanup, cover the table with split garbage bags topped with butcher paper.

FORM AND FUNCTION: For a prettier and more accessible tabletop, decant condiments into small dishes, ramekins or even mismatched teacups, each paired with a teaspoon for serving. Arrange the containers of dips, salsas and sauces down the table, so each diner has everything within reach. *

Questions should be addressed to Ask Martha, care of Letters Department, Martha Stewart Living, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036. Questions also may be sent by e-mail to: mslletters@marthastewart.com.