Pool parties, BBQ’s, weekend trips, casual clothes and attitudes, are all signs that summer is finally here. But it’s the July 4th holiday, Independence Day, when folks really start entertaining. Here you’ll find Madame Noire’s tips to throw the perfect party this weekend and all season long.
- Pick A Theme – A summertime party should be easy breezy. While costumes are great for Halloween, you can pick a simple theme for your summer get-together by choosing a color (a la Diddy’s all-white parties) or an era (a funky ‘70s vibe) or something that makes you, the host, unique. This way your guests have an amazing time and get to know more about you too!
- Set The Tone With Music –The music you play will definitely set the mood for your event. If you can hire a DJ, great. But you may have to rely on your iPod to rock the party. In advance, pick your music, surf the web for playlists and finally, tap into your inner DJ. Start with mid-tempo hits, as the day/night goes on go for the hits. Bring it back to more mellow sounds to get folks mingling and towards the end of the party—if it’s that kind of party—play all the jams that will get your guests dancing.
- Decorate – Did you just collect seashells on your trip to Myrtle Beach? Have a beach theme with sand in clear, fancy vases and the most beautiful shells scattered around the tables. You can dress up your backyard or deck with cushions to sit on and inexpensive paper lanterns. Pearl River mart is a great resource for those looking to decorate on a budget.
- Lighting – Don’t have your guests stuck in the dark or sitting under too-bright lights. One solution: candles. They are cheap, you can buy them in a variety of colors and they are easy to use. Tip: Put water in the votive holders so the candles don’t stick to the glass for easier cleanup.
- Drinks – Have a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage for your guests. Serve a special cocktail to compliment your theme. Try this recipe for Sangria.
- Hostess With The Mostess – Don’t forget that your guests came to your party to see you. Be available to re-stock the ice and clean the spills, but also make sure you join in on the dancing, sit and chat with loved ones and participate in the fun.
- Document It – Take lots of pictures. Your guests will (most likely) love seeing them on Facebook. You can also hook the camera up to your laptop and printer and give them out as gifts guests leave for the night.
- Good Eats – This goes without saying, but how many times have you been to an all-day event and the host only served chips and dip? No bueno. Plan out a menu of an easy green salad, one-bite appetizers, a chicken dish, maybe fish tacos or beef burgers, a potato or macaroni salad, and yes you can have chips and dip as well. Also, don’t forget: watermelon, corn on the cob, and desserts like brownies and pies.
- Budget – Make sure you are happy before, during and after your party by creating a budget and sticking to it. Ideally, you should list all the things you’ll need for the party and the costs a few weeks in advance. But even if you only have a few days to plan, make a list and then go back and edit it. This way you can decide if you really need 15 bottles of wine or new throw pillows for the sofa to match your party theme.
