The scene is set for drama - The Jewish Chronicle

Long days and balmy nights lend themselves perfectly to entertaining. Whether it is an intimate affair for close friends and family or a larger celebration, July and August are prime times for getting together.

Thankfully, entertaining has also moved on from serving up the charred remains of chicken from the barbecue. Now I find that people want to create a sense of occasion no matter what - investing more time in planning something that is memorable and special, even if it is on a small scale.

While I love spontaneity as much as anyone, the key to a successful summer party is preparation. Taking some time in the run-up to get yourself in order will mean more time to enjoy yourself during the event itself.

That is not to say that an impromptu gathering is totally off the cards but, whenever possible, try to follow these tricks of the trade.

Reign supreme over the weather

Nothing beats a great British summer's day, but all too many of us have found out to our cost just how unpredictable summer weather can be. If you are planning a party weeks or even days ahead, the one thing you cannot guarantee is sunshine. But if you have sensible contingencies in place, then all is not lost - I always provide wraps and lap blankets if it becomes a bit chilly later on in the evening, for example. No matter how perfect the outdoor space, always have a Plan B in case things take a climatic change for the worse.

Create a sense of occasion

Consider what you are celebrating and any theme that you might wish to adopt. This year, there have already been plenty of right royal occasions in honour of the Queen's birthday, while parties to mark sporting finals and other personal landmarks are perennially popular. If you do choose a theme for your party, make sure that it extends through décor, any dress code (tennis whites; red, white and blue etc) and cuisine - but also remember smaller details like music. This will be more "background" if the event is outside, or perhaps hire a swing band, a cappella group or even local buskers for some really unusual live entertainment.

Food for thought

Give due consideration to the menu for the day. It needs to be something that works with the wider theme and the kind of occasion you are creating.

Take into account any dietary requirements that your guests may have and also the practicalities of how food should be served - here, elements such as paper versus linen napkins come into play. As far as I am concerned, material always adds a touch of class to your table linen- no matter the quality of the paper alternative, they are still ultimately disposable for a reason.

Drink up

If you are catering for more than a few people, keep drinks simple or hire in a bar team to look after liquid refreshments. Usually one signature cocktail will suffice, with ice-filled vats of drinks to supplement the provisions behind the bar, allowing guests to serve themselves. That way there will be less pressure on the host to be omnipresent mixing drinks and more time to mingle with your guests.