Outdoor party time is front of mind as the winter months melt away. You are probably in the midst of all things Spring – such as spring break, graduation, baseball games, soccer practice, prom, and other pre-summer events. You’ve worked hard for the kiddos this school year – now is the time for a little fun with some adult flair. However, before you invite your friends over for the perfect refreshing bash, here are several helpful tips to consider during the planning process.
Whether you want your party to be extravagant & elegant or fun & funky, your choice of lighting, decor & color will set the tone. For a relaxing cocktail hour, lights strung from the trees or along the fence, candlelit lanterns, fresh floral arrangements and strategically placed wine & champagne buckets will show off your sense of style. Pops of color can quickly add excitement to the decor. Pick vibrant shades of pinks, greens and purples and place them around the patio or pool. Use small paper lanterns or bunting in bright colors to add the sense of an outdoor fiesta or barbecue. Add led lighting to your pool bubblers.
If you want to go with a theme, you could add touches of tropical elements like vibrant flowers and subtle bamboo details, or hang beach balls from tree branches and awnings to add a fun childhood element. For something a little more grown up and sophisticated, you could use a nautical theme with deep blues and reds accompanied with white details, adding touches of anchors and sailboats.
Depending on your party’s theme, you will want to serve the appropriate drinks to go with your food selections. Margaritas, mojitos and sangria make for a refreshing complement to any south of the border food. If you’re serving bbq, don’t forget to have some popular beer to select from. A number of breweries release summer editions that will add an excellent touch to your event. As you select wines, consider light refreshing options that will be optimal for the heat of the outside setting. Be sure to have everything sufficiently chilled in time for the party.
The sides you serve along with the main course are just as important. Consider providing a spread of light summer salads. There are many options that go beyond a traditional green or potato salad. Bring back memories of corn on the cob by creating a light refreshing concoction from the kernels. There are also a variety of salads that use bright green asparagus, broccoli or kale.
Outdoor party time games are not just for children. On a warm spring afternoon, adults also enjoy time playing on the lawn or in the pool. Throw some fun floating tubes and lounges for people to relax in the pool. This not only provides a place to cool off but also adds to the decor. If you want to incorporate more active games, set up a volleyball net on the lawn or get a beach ball and set up a net for some pool volleyball. Get everyone involved and create a little competition while enjoying the water. If you’re feeling a bit more nostalgic and adventurous, purchase some inexpensive water guns and water balloons for a water gun battle. Fun activities such as these will ensure that everyone has a fantastic time.
You have a lot of options when hosting your party. Just try to be creative and have fun with the process. Vibrant decorations, delicious barbecue, impressive drinks, and fun activities will have your guests talking about the event for weeks and months to come.
