2. Always hold more formal parties on solid ground, where stone or brick surfaces make for easier walking, and let your guests know in advance that they will be celebrating outdoors so they can dress appropriately.

3. Don't be afraid to use your finery outdoors. Guests will appreciate your trusting them with your heirloom china, and the result will be much more spectacular than plasticware.

4. Nighttime dinner parties require lots of lighting with candles, lanterns, and torches. The food table's surface should be bright enough for guests to see what they're eating. Don't use scented candles unless the scent is faint enough not to disturb the taste of the food. If it's a balmy night, make sure you also include lots of citronella candles around the perimeter to help keep mosquitoes at bay.

5. For a poolside party, work with tropical colors like fuchsia and coral to provide the accents. If the event is taking place at night, rim the pool with candles. Or float candles in the water to create the feel of a South Pacific getaway-and to ensure that guests won't dive in, unless that is their intention.

6. Provide plenty of shade if the day is warm and easy access to your home so guests won't feel banished.

7. If you have music, don't let its volume interfere with conversation.

8. A garden is a great setting for a party because the flowers and greenery provide the decoration, but it's still nice to add a few carefully placed loose arrangements.

9. If your garden is large, consider bringing out picnic blankets to complement tables and chairs. This underscores the laid-back feel and provides seating, so you don't have to rent additional chairs.