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27 Products To Buy If You’re In Your Summer Hosting Era

You’re home is about to become the new neighborhood hot spot.

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by Kathleen Shea-Porter BuzzFeed Contributor

I've been a BuzzFeed Contributor since 2020 and I'm always on the lookout for products that are the perfect blend of form and function — especially if it's in the realms of parenting, travel, and home goods and décor.

1. A condiment traythat comes with five small spoons, five forks, and a set of tongs. You can even fill the bucket with ice to keep your garnishes and toppings cool. This isn't a one-time use item — you'll look like an absolute hosting pro for mimosa bars, taco toppings, and even a make-your-own pizza party. Start dreaming up new ways to use it! 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Absolute must buy for hosting parties. This is such a great item. I've used it for toppings for tacos as well as for various fruits when serving champagne. It's worth the price. It's thick, not flimsy and durable. It's the right size and fit in my insolated carrying bag with not problem. It's also easy to clean. I would purchase this again." —Michelle

Get it from Amazon for $22.99.

2. A 28-inch Blackstone griddle, which you keep seeing in Insta reels and TikToks for a reason — you can pretty much make anything on this baby. Smash burgers for the baseball team? It's a home run. A hibachi night for your friends? It's ~shrimply~ the best. Friends brunch on the patio? It's an *eggcellent* idea. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Easy to assemble. So easy to maintain and keep clean. Food smells great when cooking. While the griddle temperature can get up there it is not hot enough to sear thin steaks without overlooking them. Great for cooking several dishes at the same time. I recommend you buy the Blackstone griddle set as it comes with everything you will need for cooking with this griddle. Adios to my old conventional barbecue grill." —derek mccandless

Get it from Amazon for $399.99.

3. A set of two 1-gallon glass drink dispensers (with infuser inserts and mini chalkboard signs!) so you can set up the beverage station of your dreams. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Obsessed! These look so much more expensive than they actually are. The quality is fantastic and I am already debating on buying more. They were a big hit at my party and even a few guests purchased themselves. Definitely a must buy!" —Kristen D.

Get it from Amazon for $42.74.

4. A set of four bug repellent outdoor spinners because you did NOT spend all that time menu planning and prepping for some uninvited, rude flies to vomit all over your food (don't Google it, just trust me here). These do all the swatting for you and keep your food and table bug free.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Fly Fans have become our Texas summer saviors! With flies as persistent as mosquitoes, these fans have been a game changer for our outdoor entertaining. We used them religiously, and I can confidently say they live up to their promise of keeping flies away. No more shooing pests – just pure enjoyment. We love entertaining outdoors, and thanks to these Fly Fans, it's a hassle-free experience. I will never host an outdoor gathering without them. Five stars for an essential Texas summer solution! Highly recommend the Fly Fans for a fly-free zone!" —MBCooper

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in two colors).

5. An outdoor rolling cooler, which comes in all sorts of cute colors for a neat retro look. This will keep your drinks cold and your guests feeling chill when they need to get another bevvy.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I bought this to use while catering my brother’s housewarming party. It was a hit! It held a ton of bottles and cans with room to hold more on the shelf underneath. The ice stayed cold and melted very slowly, even in the direct sun in Tucson on a 100° day!!! He loved it so much, he asked to keep it for future parties. I will definitely be buying a replacement as soon as I have a need. We got the grey one because it happened to be discounted, and the color is nice and neutral. The other colors offered do look fun, though. A great cooler for the money and I love that no one has to bend down for a drink or have a cooler lid slamming in their hands." —A.Quayle

Get it from Amazon for $129.99+ (available in 11 colors). 

6. A BBQ grill caddy that will make you look like an actual pitmaster when you bring it outside. With room for plates, servingware, paper towels, and the all-important collection of sauces (time to show off that hot sauce collection), it's a one-stop shop for your cookout. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I bought this for my father cause he loves to bbq. He absolutely loves it! It makes it so easy to carry everything outside for those summer bbqs and I don’t think a summer cook could live without it." —John

Get it from Amazon for $29.99.

7. A 36-inch firepit which comes with two grills, a poker, and a waterproof cover so you can bring the old school campfire vibes to your backyard hangs. (Who remembers the songs from Girl Scout camp?!) And, maybe, just maybe, you can make s'mores for dessert.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "We have had a much better summer because of purchasing this firepit/grill. Lots of friends over and lots of cookouts. Super easy to put together, the two grills are great and the fact it comes with a lid converting it to a table and included a cover make made this a great purchase. Delivery time couldn't have been better. Would definitely buy again.🔥 🌭 🍺 😁" —Becky K. 

Get it from Amazon for $115.79+ (available in three sizes).

8. A set of five extendable, s'more or hot dog skewers, because once someone mentions s'mores (muahaha), you absolutely HAVE to make them. Don't blame me, though. I don't make the rules.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These roasting sticks are perfect for family nights and camping!! 🔥🍫 The length is great, so you can stay at a safe distance from the fire, and they feel sturdy and well made. Easy to extend and clean, and everyone can use their own without getting too close to the heat. We used them for s’mores and it made the whole experience even more fun! Definitely a must-have for outdoor gatherings and bonfire nights!! ✨" —KikaBrazil

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+(available in six quantities and styles).

9. A set of six woven placemats, which will give any tablescape a coastal, summery feel. You'll make Martha and Ina proud.  

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These placemats have been a great find for hosting and holidays! They’re thick, sturdy, and don’t shed. I love that they can be used for all kinds of holidays and tablescapes and they are easy to keep clean!" —Steph Z. 

Get it from Amazon for $34.90+ (available in five sizes). 

10. A mix pack of 100 compostable wooden forks, knives, and spoons, because not only are these better for the environment, they're way more chic than plastic cutlery. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These may be disposable, but they are durable! I don’t have anything but good comments about it! First, it was very resistant to all the kinds of food served and also very comfortable while eating (better than plastic ones). It kind of gives some fanciness to the party since they have this nice natural-wood color that fits well with any type of decoration. For ecofriendly people like me, the best is that it is recyclable and helps to not contaminate the planet. I will buy again." —Mara

Get it from Amazon for$20+(available in five styles and four quantities).

11. A pack of three citronella candles to boost the aesthetic of your evening in two very important ways: 1. adding a soft glow makes everything feel more upscale, and 2. it helps keeps the mosquitoes away, and those little suckers really know how to ruin your night.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "We enjoy sitting in our backyard, grilling, hanging out in the spa, etc. Those unwelcomed evening guests (bugs) are so annoying. These candles are fabulous! It isn't a typical pure citronella scent - there is a slight lemon or lemongrass aroma as well. It's refreshing and they do help to keep away the pests which is the main goal, obviously. They last a long time, but we have to bring them in during the summer months or they'd melt in the heat. The tins have a very pretty design. Would definitely recommend these!" —BarbieJ

Get it from Amazon for $29.99(available in three colors). 

12. A set of two rechargeable LED lights that are also Bluetooth-enabled speakers, so your guests can enjoy that playlist you meticulously curated AND see where they're going when they get up to dance!

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These speakers are amazing! love the look at night and the couple of different options. They paired easily to my phone and to each other automatic when the other was turned on, great for entertaining in a large space! The sound quality was great, loud enough for an outside space as well!" —Maria cacciola

Get it from Amazon for $69.99.

13. A party cup holder with spots for two Sharpies, because everyone is friends (or will be by the end of the night), but there's no need to share drinks. Write your name on your cup and keep your germs to yourself, thank you very much. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "We bought these before hosting a block party and they work great! I like that they are solid wood with just indentations because you won't have to worry about something breaking off. We've used it a couple of times for parties and not only do people like it, but the Sharpies don't get lost. Looks good, fits in our hosting storage box, and good value. I recommend it if you ever host several people who may drink from plastic cups." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for$12.99+ (available in six colors).

14. A patio umbrella holder, which clips to your deck so you don't need to get a heavy, bulky umbrella stand and lose valuable square footage. Guests love to be outside — but not if they're blinded by the sun and getting fried to a crisp!

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "OMG. This is a game changer for me. My deck is 8 feet+ in the air, gets lots of wind, and Southern exposure. I have bought and return potential solution for cover and that would also withstand mild winds. I have a Trex deck with aluminum railing with thin balusters. I got this today. The stand is sturdy, easy to assemble, and move around. Winds are out and I see no issues or concerns with umbrella waving around like I did in stand nor me anchoring it with bungy cords. I bought another one for corner of deck so all I have to do is move the umbrella to the other stand and secure as the sun moves. Happy!" —MiaMarie

Get it from Amazon for $89.99(also available in two other styles).

15. A solar-powered LED light-up umbrella to bring the shade during the day and the ambiance at night. Nothing keeps a party going like flipping on the twinkle lights after dark.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: I’m really impressed with this patio umbrella. It feels very sturdy and well-built, which is exactly what I was looking for. The solar light feature is fantastic—it adds such a cool ambiance to the patio in the evening, and it's super convenient that it’s powered by the sun so I don't have to worry about cords. It’s held up well and definitely elevates the outdoor space. Highly recommend! Please note, it doesn’t come with the base stand." —Martha Toribio

Get it from Amazon for $65.99 (available in 11 colors).

16. A Ninja Slushi machine that absolutely DELIVERS when you're looking to make frozen drinks for a crowd. Add this to your cart... and then maybe buy a pack of those tiny little umbrellas... for no particular reason. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Get this for hosting parties, girls night in or even a fun little treat for kiddos! Noise level is not bad! The design does take up a lot of space on the counter but I clean and put mine away! It’s super easy to use though! Ninja is such a great brand and the price pays for itself after how many Margs you can get! Lol" —Delilia

Get it from Amazon for $298.

17. A set of 20 mini chalkboard signs, perfect for labeling buffets (you're always making sure your gluten-free friends know what they can eat) or even for putting together the ideal seating arrangement (placing the right people next to each other is your super power). 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These mini chalk boards are perfect for hosting parties and buffets . Easy to put together and come with chalk markers . Also includes replacements for the boards for repeated uses. Holds up well outside and are big enough for guests to read." —jessica

Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in two quantities).

18. A set of two waterproof, gingham table clothsfor a crisp, classic New England summer look. The only things missing? A plate of hot dogs, Cape Cod chips, some cold lemonade, and you and your friends at the table.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "We used these for a family reunion, they were great for the picnic tables! I washed them in the washing machine on the gentle cycle, cold water. They came out great. They’ll be used again and again." —Leah L

Get it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in four sizes and six colors). 

19. A copy of Platters and Boards, the book that truly changed the way I host parties. Get ready to enter your charcuterie cutie era, because you're going to want to make a board for every single thing. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This book is great! It includes a lot of pictures and visual inspiration for different boards as well as the components for them. They also included many recipes for different meals which I did not expect. I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a good breakfast bar, charcuterie board, or hosts a lot of parties! Plus it looks beautiful on your cookbook shelf." —Grace

Get it from Amazon for $12.55.

20. A champagne and wine chiller ice mold that will totally deliver the wow factor when you bring it out. I always repurpose the flowers that have been given to me so I can enjoy them again later on with friends — save those roses, because they could help chill your rosé.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This ice mold is a must have for any hostess or host. It’s a simple addition to any event that just takes it to another level . There are endless ways of creating a look to match any occasion. I can’t wait to get creative with each use. Easy to use and it actually works keeping your wine or champagne chilled while out! My ice bucket doesn’t display the company’s name which I like. All my guest love it and compliments flow just like the wine!" —El Water Pumps

Get it from Amazon for $26.37 (also available in a two-pack). 

21. A bamboo charcuterie board set with four cheese knives, two ceramic bowls, and six dessert forks, because you are an artist and this is your canvas. You know how to put together the perfect board of crispy, crunchy, savory, sweet, and creamy — it's your masterpiece! 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This was a last-minute purchase for a party we hosted and the charcuterie was a hit! I loved the ramekins, spots for nuts and more, and the knife set is higher quality than what you would expect for the price point. Sharp and heavy. I do wish the ramekins were a little bit deeper, they’re quite shallow and probably meant for jams and honey but I wanted to use them for pickles and olives. I made them work, but it’s worth mentioning. The board was easy to clean and the small forks were a great accessory. I ended up using the fruit tray to hold a dip and crackers, it’s super versatile. I highly recommend this board for your own kitchen or as a gift!" —Gina DeLand

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in two styles). 

22. A set of 24 plastic, scalloped plates (12 dinner and 12 dessert) that look like they belong in a Nancy Meyers movie, but are kid-friendly enough to be in a Disney movie. These won't break when they're dropped and will become your go-tos every time you set up an outdoor tablescape.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Perfect for any host who wants style without the stress! The scalloped edge and ivory color makes them incredibly versatile for any occasion, instantly making the entire setting feel elevated. Beyond their charm, they’re highly practical: dishwasher friendly, easy to clean, and impressively scratch resistant. Win win!" —Samantha

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in nine colors and two quantities).

23. A pack of eight gold mini metal tongs, which elevate the look of your event AND keep dirty hands off the food. That's a win-win.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Note: Some reviewers say these were smaller than they expected! 

Promising review: "These mini gold tongs are so cute and practical! I originally got them for hosting, but they are perfect from serving pastries and fruit at brunch to handling ice cubes and even tiny desserts. They’re actually really sturdy despite their size. They’re easy to clean. Highly recommend if you are looking for any tool for parties, special events or just want your kitchen accessories to feel a little more put together!" —Mariela Herrera | Mom & Professional Organizer

Get it from Amazon for $9.99.

24. A set of eight plastic drinking glasses that look like the real deal but definitely won't shatter when you (or your friend's kiddo) drops them on the patio. Future you will thank yourself for getting these. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Looks like glass, good feel, and perfect for outdoor use on the stone patio (especially with three young kids)!" —prairiearth

Get it from Amazon for $22.99(available in two colors).

25. An extra-large glass salad bowl with an acacia wood base and accompanying serving utensils to help you dress up the MVP of summertime hosting — a crisp, bagged salad. Pop that in here, and it will look like you spent hours lovingly chopping lettuce and vegetables. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This salad bowl set is beautiful and very well made. The glass bowl is large and sturdy, and the acacia wood base adds a nice, elevated look. It is perfect for entertaining and looks great on the table. A great combination of function and style, and I am very happy with this purchase." —Nerk

Get it from Amazon for $54.99.

26. An ice-chilled party platter with four compartments, plus four ice bags, three tongs, five forks, and five spoons — because there's something super unsettling about a warm shrimp cocktail or overheated cheese cubes. The lid means you can even take your hosting show on the go.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I am really amazed with this product. I love that it has a separate compartment for ice, the food and a lid to keep the flies out. It came with ice bags too. I filled an ice bag with a little water and put it in the bottom tray and then in the freezer to mold ice on the bottom. I added more ice when ready to serve. It kept The fruits and vegetables at a cool temperature in the Texas heat. It also is also easy to clean. Glad I bought this." —joann

Get it from Amazon for $36.97.

27. A pack of 24 food baskets(plus 100 liners to get you started!) because food just tastes better when it's in one of these. It's giving the-diner-you-dream-about-getting-that-burger-and-fries-from energy. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These baskets are perfect for serving burgers, fries, and other fast food. The material is sturdy, easy to clean, and looks great on the table. The liners included are very practical and keep the basket clean. You get plenty of them for many uses. Ideal for parties, picnics, or just adding a fun touch to meals at home. Highly recommended!" —Yerlin

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in four colors).

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Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.