Sure, your guests may know that the party is in the backyard, but that does not necessarily mean they will come prepared.

So be ready with some of the essentials they may not think to bring, and impress your guests at your next backyard get-together.

Here are our picks for the party basket.

Sun-tan Lotions - One for kids, one for adults, and preferably a spray lotion. Our suggestion are the Coppertone Continuous Spray Lotions, which don't have to be rubbed in, available in standard or Sport, just in case the party ends up in the pool.

Bug Repellant - Again for kids and adults, this will come in handy for when the bugs come out in the early evening. You guests will thank-you, we promise.

Throws - For early or late summer outdoor entertaining a few colourful throws are a must. Ikea has fleece throws starting at $7, so pick-up a few and keep the party going well into the night.

Misting Sprays - Evian, Aveda and Vittel, all have misting sprays which are a nice treat to keep your guests refreshed on those hot summer afternoons.

Sun Umbrellas - For backyard with full sun and few parasols, these are a perfect compliment to backyard entertaining. Strategically place them in a grouping and let guests stroll around the backyard with them.

Flip-Flops - For that one guests who shows up to a summer afternoon get-together with socks and dress shoes. Have them roll up their khakis and slip on a new pair of flip-flops. Our choice, Havaiannas of course, and pick the white ones with the pink ribbon in support of Breast Cancer research.

To read the complete article on the Party Basket in the Globe and Mail Style Section please click here.

Photography by The Globe & Mail