Warm hearts with a campfire party

Enjoy the last days of the outdoor entertaining season with this cozy- chic celebration

Reconnect by the fire

There’s something about a fire that prompts people to sit back and connect, says Jamie M. O’donnell, an event planner in Orlando, Florida ( Jamieo.co). And you don’t need a built-in fire pit or a giant space for a bonfire: Home stores sell portable pits for as little as $50.

Tip: To make it even cozier, set out a basket of blankets along with a sign to encourage everyone to cuddle up.

Gather around an inviting table

The fire may have the starring role of the party, but a low-fuss meal of soup, sandwiches and salad enjoyed around a dressed-up picnic table makes a satisfying first act that keeps guests fueled for a fun evening. Here, topping a picnic table with a plaid runner (made from a folded sheet or blanket) and a mix of pumpkins clustered with faux or fromthe-garden flowers creates a low-profile centerpiece that allows guests to see one another, making cross-table conversation easy.

Set up a “help yourself” s’mores station

“S’mores never fail to bring a smile to everyone’s face,” notes O’donnell. “And they’re a perfect party treat because you can set out all of the individual ingredients ahead of time and guests can make them as they want them throughout the party, taking the pressure off of you.” For easy marshmallow toasting, she suggests using extra long metal skewers with a wooden handle ($ 8 for 12, Walmart stores).

GIVE S’MORES A TASTY UPGRADE! Offer guests caramelfilled chocolate bars or flavored marshmallows. Also delicious: Set out unexpected sweet-and-salty add-ins like chocolate peanut butter cups, butter crackers and pretzel thins.