Chris and Amber Earl know a thing or two about throwing a great party. Their home in Los Angeles, which you can see more of on Apartment Therapy here, is perfect for hosting events, from fancy sit down dinners to casual backyard BBQs. Chris is a talented craftsman — he’s known for beautiful ceramics and puts his woodworking skills to use in a line of sleek tabletop accessories and furniture. And, to the joy of his guests, he’s also a fantastic chef.

The pair recently hosted a small gathering to celebrate the arrival of summer. Chris Earl Ceramics sat alongside Parachute Home’s latest tabletop collection, while a bartender from Saucey whipped up refreshing cocktails. It was a great event yet all seemed so effortless — one of those occasions that has you asking “How do they do it?!” So, we tapped the couple to find out just that. Read on to find out how your summer parties can be beautiful, fun, and most importantly, easy:

  1. Always keep in mind, “What would make me feel at home?” Create an environment that is welcoming, intriguing, and ultimately inviting… If you would want to be there, so will they.
  2. It’s best to have a basic theme or feel in mind that you’re shooting for. This will help to plan, edit down, and simplify what is actually important to pull off your your event.
  3. Have a signature cocktail or two to welcome your guests with. These can be virgin if desired, but they will set the tone for the rest of the event.
  4. Make things easier on you. We booked a bartender via Saucey so we could spend more time catching up with friends and enjoy the event. They even delivered the alcohol and ice to us too.
  5. Be resourceful. There’s no need to spend too much on décor. Cut branches from near-by trees, take clippings of your succulents, flowers or garden. Find interesting ways to make displays with the elements that surround you.
  6. Play great music. This is a great way to set the tone or vibe of your event, again going along with your theme or feel.
  7. RELAX, have fun.

(Psst… looking for more entertaining inspiration from the Earls? you can peep on past events using the #EarlResidence hashtag on Instagram.)

Product Sources: Tiled bar: Cement Tile Shop Atlas II // Bar Stools: Chris Earl Metal Bar Stools from Sable Seating Collection (with Custom Outdoor Fabric) // Metal Bar Cart: Chris Earl // Our Vodka: Our Los Angeles // Lanterns on Table: Cost Plus World Market // Pillows: Caroline Cecil Textiles // Table Napkins & Runner: Parachute Home // Totem Vases on Bar: West Elm // Bird Vase: Jonathan Adler // Bowls and TumblrsChris Earl Ceramics // Throw on Daybed: Morrow Soft Goods // Wicker Chairs: Vintage via Mary’s Finds