Preparation

As the summer season approaches, we begin to plan activities like backyard barbecues, park picnics, and celebrations by the pool. And as we continue to navigate a new phase of the coronavirus pandemic, these outdoor entertaining opportunities will be the standard—so what are some go-to items you should start collecting for these gatherings? When you’re stocking up on supplies for outdoor soirées, you don’t have to rely on the same kinds of dishes and glassware that you would set on the table inside—and, ultimately, you shouldn’t, since many of these objects are composed of glass, which makes them supremely breakable. No one wants to worry about broken shards while poolside.

Luckily, there are so many outdoor-friendly entertaining options, especially on the drinkware front. From colorful wine glasses to tall cups that beautifully house seasonal cocktails, there are tons of options that are perfect for outside or poolside use. Sometimes referred to as shatter-resistant or non-shatter, these types of drinking glasses are typically made from acrylic or ultra-sturdy plastic (so they are dishwasher-friendly!) and won’t experience fading from hours of sunlight exposure. Another plus? Sets are often stackable, which makes them easy to grab and go. Best of all, there are an incredible amount of refined, elegant outdoor drinkware options—some look convincingly crystal-like, while others come emblazoned with fun, seasonal prints and colors. From our founder’s berry-print Tom Collins glasses ($21.99 for four, macys.com) to textured, short tumblers perfect for serving old fashioneds, find exactly what you need to enjoy seasonal beverages al fresco—sans broken glass—ahead.

Martha Stewart Collection Berry Acrylic Tom Collins Glasses with StirrersWest Elm Fluted Acrylic Glassware in Silver PineHouse of Hampton ″Heil″ Acrylic Red Wine GlassPottery Barn ″Mod Italian″ Outdoor Tall Drinking Glasses in WhiteWilliams Sonoma ″DuraClear″ Tritan Faceted Glasses