Ep 23: Summer Hosting Part 1 Fire Pits, Lighting, & How Not to Burn a Hole in Your Deck 🪵
Welcome back to another episode of How To Handyma'am!
This week, we're kicking off our two-part Summer Hosting Series because, after surviving another Michigan winter, we're finally ready to spend every possible second outside. Whether you're planning backyard bonfires, family cookouts, or neighborhood get-togethers, we covered everything you need to know to get your outdoor space ready—without accidentally setting your deck on fire.
Tune in on Spotify or Apple Podcasts now!
Here is a breakdown of what we discussed this week:
A Dedication to Carla Jean ❤️
This week's episode is dedicated to Carla Jean, a dear friend of Samantha's mom who recently passed away.
Although Samantha never had the chance to meet her personally, it was clear from the hundreds of stories shared by friends and family that Carla Jean was someone who loved people well and left a lasting impact on everyone she met.
Our takeaway? Be the kind of friend people remember for your kindness, generosity, and ability to make others feel seen.
Fire Pit Safety: Please Don't Melt Your Deck 🔥
Nothing says summer quite like gathering around a fire pit—but where you place it matters just as much as the fire itself.
We talked about:
Why portable fire pits should never sit directly on a wood or composite deck.
The importance of using a fireproof base or pad underneath your fire pit.
Giving your fire pit plenty of clearance from furniture, railings, trees, and your home.
Always checking the manufacturer's clearance recommendations before lighting your first fire.
A cozy backyard isn't worth replacing an entire deck.
Outdoor Lighting Makes All the Difference ✨
Good lighting can completely transform your backyard after the sun goes down.
Some of our favorite options include:
String lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Solar pathway lights to safely guide guests around your yard.
LED lighting for energy efficiency and long-lasting performance.
Accent lighting to highlight landscaping, patios, or seating areas.
The right lighting not only makes your space look better—it also makes it safer for everyone enjoying the evening.
Get Your Backyard Party-Ready
Before guests arrive, it's worth spending a little time getting your outdoor space cleaned up.
We covered:
Power washing patios, decks, and walkways.
Cleaning outdoor furniture after a long winter.
Inspecting your deck for loose boards or safety hazards.
Tackling small maintenance projects before they become bigger problems.
A little prep work goes a long way toward making your backyard feel fresh for the season.
Keep the Bugs Away 🦟
Nothing clears out a backyard party faster than mosquitoes.
We talked about a few ways to make your outdoor gatherings more enjoyable, including:
Citronella products.
Proper outdoor airflow with fans.
Reducing standing water where mosquitoes breed.
Planning your seating areas with bug control in mind.
Because the only guests you invited should be people.
Summer Hosting Starts Before the Food
This episode is the first half of our Summer Hosting Series, focusing on preparing your outdoor space before anyone rings the doorbell.
In Part 2, we'll dive into Emily's favorite hosting tips, entertaining tricks, and all the little details that make guests feel welcome without creating extra stress for the host.
Our Biggest Takeaway
Creating a backyard that people love spending time in isn't about having the biggest patio or the fanciest furniture. It's about making your space safe, comfortable, and welcoming.
A little maintenance, thoughtful lighting, and a few smart safety precautions can make all the difference—and help ensure your summer memories are made around the fire, not because of one.
As always, follow How To Handyma'am on social media for more DIY tips, home improvement advice, and behind-the-scenes laughs. We'll see you next week for Part 2 of our Summer Hosting Series!
