We are preparing for a summer of gatherings. The sun-drenched patio and our very long dining table are calling to be filled both with festive celebrations and quiet evenings with shared friends. One thing I’ve learned over the years is that gatherings just don’t appear out of thin air. If I want my summer to be filled with food and friends, I have to plan for it – or something else will always be in the way. So this week I am excited to plan out our summer entertaining and here are 25 easy and fun ideas to do just that. A collection of different and simple ways to encourage us all in merrymaking our summer!