Host the Perfect Summer Party
Summer is in full swing and that means the parties are as well! With limited summer days left (it’s already mid-July!}, it’s time to start planning your perfect summer party. Whether this is your first time hosting a summer soiree or you’d consider yourself a seasoned party planner, our tips are sure to make your get-together the talk of the town.
1. Be prepared
Getting organized and preparing for your party ahead of time is the first step to having your party go off without a hitch. {And not to mention being prepared will ease a lot of the stress as the date draws near!} This checklist will help you stay organized and make sure you’re prepared for every last detail.
2. Theme it
Picking a theme will guide the rest of your planning process, so it’s important to do this step early on. Decor, tableware, drinks, food and music should all work cohesively to achieve an overarching theme. We’ve turned to party planning queen and author of Celebrate, Lauren Conrad, for theme inspiration. Here are some of our faves:
Pool Party
Pineapple Garden Party
Boho
BBQ and Campfire
Tropical
3. Menu
Whether you’re planning an intimate get-together or inviting the whole neighborhood, your menu is undeniably one of the things guests will remember most. Choose classic summer foods and in-season produce like peaches, watermelon, tomatoes, and zucchini. For a smaller affair, your menu can get more complex, but we recommend keeping it simple for bigger get-togethers. Burgers, ribs, hot dogs, and kebabs are your go-to for feeding a lot of people. Keep in mind any dietary restrictions invited guests have as well, and be sure to have options for them so they don’t go hungry! Here are some of our favorite summer party dishes:
Roasted Garlic and Feta Chicken Burger
Grilled Corn with Chili and Manchego Cheese
4. Drinks
Nothing beats the summer heat like a refreshing drink {alcoholic or not}, so be sure to keep the beverages flowing at your party. Margaritas and sangria are great for outdoor parties and easy to prepare beforehand. To keep things simple, create a self-serve bar or a bar cart where guests can create their own concoctions. A good host also knows to be responsible with alcohol and offer non-alcoholic drinks as well. Dress up a pitcher of water with cucumber slices, berries, or lemons.
5. Games
Lawn games can be a fun way to entertain your guests if space allows. Bag toss, badminton, volleyball, croquet, and lawn bowling are lawn game classics that your guests are sure to love. Keep your guest list in mind when deciding if games are something you want to provide or not.
6. Lights
Lighting might seem like a minor detail, and most hosts may not even consider it in the planning process. But, lighting can either make or break your ambiance. Go for a warm glow by using lanterns and string lights.
7. Comfort is key
Set up cozy chairs, couches, and benches to give your guests a place to sit and chat. Arrange the seating areas to encourage conversation so that guests mix and mingle. Your guests will most likely stand the majority of the time, but it’s important to offer them the opportunity to sit as well.
You’re now equipped with the expert knowledge necessary to throw the best party of the summer {or year}! Let the planning begin!!
