From a small gathering with a handful of friends to a gigantic event for most of the neighborhood, a summer party requires several elements to come together seamlessly. Kristina Zias shares her approach to creating the ultimate summer vibe while making all the guests feel welcome.
Whether it was a simple Saturday barbecue to a Fourth of July extravaganza, summer is always about bringing people together. Even if the days are long and the temperatures are hot, no one is going to stay in bed when there is fun to be had and food to be enjoyed.
While people can be confident in setting a great food menu or shaking up an amazing cocktail, the atmosphere surrounding that dish and glass need to capture the summer vibe. Often, scents set the tone.
Recently, Glade partnered with Kristina Zias. The style and entertaining maven understands that people want to feel welcomed into an inviting space as much as they want to eat a plate of scrumptious food. The aroma from the grill might waft to the door, but ambiance for the entire event comes from the candles placed strategically around the space.
Through her partnership with Glade, and its Americana Collection, Kristina gracious answers some questions. Below is a transcript of that interview.
Cristine Struble: A summer party is as much about the atmosphere as it is about food and drinks. What are some easy ways to set the scene?
Kristina Zias: Atmosphere is everything, and I love setting the tone with music, lighting, flowers, and of course—scent. After a day at the beach, Beach Life from the Glade Americana collection is my go-to for keeping that tropical, laid-back vibe going at home. It’s got this perfect blend of fragrance that instantly makes the space feel calm and coastal with notes of sea salt, driftwood, white moss and white peony. Whether I’m lighting a Glade Americana candle or using the PlugIns, it’s such an easy way to create that summer vibe while entertaining without overthinking it.
Struble: Sometimes an aroma can instantly bring back special memories, what are some scents that capture those nostalgic moments for you?
Zias: Scent is such a powerful trigger for memory, and for me, Summer Pops does exactly that. It’s my favorite from the Glade Americana collection because it instantly takes me back to childhood—running around and enjoying a cool popsicle on a warm day. The blend of Brazilian orange, pineapple, strawberry, white peach, and sandalwood truly captures the warmth and joy of summers growing up. Berries and Cream reminds me of summer picnics with my family - It’s amazing how a single scent can bring all those memories rushing back.
Struble: When hosting a summer party, how do you balance scented candles with all the delicious food aromas? Do you build/layer flavors or do you contrast them?
Zias: It’s definitely about balance. I like to choose complementary scents that enhance, not compete with, the food. If I’m serving fresh fruit or a summer dessert, Berries and Cream from the Walmart exclusive, Glade Americana collection works beautifully because it subtly echoes those flavors. For grilled dishes or something more savory, I might go with Beach Life for a breezy contrast that keeps the air light and refreshing.
Struble: Some people can be apprehensive to host a gathering, what advice would you give them to get over any fear?
Zias: Keep it simple! Hosting doesn’t have to be stressful or over-the-top. Focus on creating a welcoming vibe—good music, a few easy dishes, and a warm atmosphere. Scent is an easy way to make your space feel cozy and lighting a Berries and Cream candle instantly makes everything feel more inviting. You don’t need a huge spread or elaborate setup—just create a space where people feel relaxed and welcome. Start small, invite your favorite people, and enjoy the moment.
Struble: Is it important to change scents with the season? Are there certain aromas that are universal?
Zias: I love switching up scents with the seasons—it refreshes my space and sets the tone for the time of year. That’s why I’m a fan of the Glade Americana collection—it’s inspired by classic summer traditions. Summer calls for fragrances that evoke joyful memories of summertime fun and relaxation, and this collection does that perfectly. But some scents, like soft florals, vanilla or fruity-inspired notes, can feel universal too. Berries and Cream, for example, is something I’d happily use year-round for that fresh, fruity note.
Struble: Do you have any summer traditions? Any big summer plans this season?
Zias: Yes! My backyard becomes a revolving event space all season long. I love entertaining so I am preparing for a summer full of pool parties and BBQs. I am also hosting my first neighborhood outdoor movie night which will be so cute. We also live eight minutes from the beach so I am going to start surfing lessons this summer which will be an adventure!
Ready to set the scent and create the optimum summer vibe? Glade has a wide array of options. It is time to make some core memories one scent at a time.