From obvious mishaps to the easily forgotten checklist items.
Lets just say its not for the faint of heart.
These are 10 summer entertaining mistakes that a Southern host would never make.

Pillows: Veranda Design, Courtesy Lisa Corti; Ceramic Pitchers: Courtesy Soire Everyday.Credit:CARMEL BRANTLEY
Summer is a time for simplicity.
Its a time to sit back and relax.
Thinkpunches, kebabs, dips, andfinger-friendlyor single serve foods.

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn
But above alldont run out of food.
It should fall near the top of the grocery list.
Even if you have a built-in ice maker, its always a good idea to have a backup supply.

Credit:Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster
Its also a good rule of thumb to have bug spray or citronella candles at any outdoor gathering.
you could even keep it fired up for desserts like grilled peach cobbler orgrilled peaches with cream.
make a run at heat things up early or consider only serving coldappetizersand bites.

Credit: Antonis Achilleos; Prop Stylist: Kay E. Clarke; Food Stylist: Karen Rankin
Leave it tobig-batch cocktailsand punches to simplify your host duties.
If youre making frozen drinks, be mindful of where you set up.
venture to pick a shady spot or theyll never freeze properly in the sun.
Neglect The Possibility Of Summer Storms
Southernweather is unpredictable, especially in the summer.