Summer to me means…BBQs, being near a body of water, ice cream/popsicles, ice cold beer (ginger beer this Summer) and enjoying the sunshine with friends + family. Since moving to New England, we learned really quickly that you must get your butt outdoors and enjoy the sunshine while it lasts! We try to make a point to do something outdoors every weekend and one of my favorite things to do is get together with friends to BBQ.
Sure, the idea of throwing a party sounds like a lot of work and if you are like me, adding to your to-do list during the busy Summer is tough. However, with a few outdoor games/activities, simple snacks and drinks, and the sun…your guests are sure to have a good time! Let’s remember what what made pool parties fun as kids…games, snacks and icees from 7-eleven! I mean, there’s really not much of a difference when you graduate to adult pool parties other than the icees change to alcoholic beverages? I mean, it’s really that simple. Don’t believe me? Here are a few of my favorite tips to help you plan your own Summertime PARTY! But, be sure to invite me… okay?!
A Few Tips:
1. Invites: One of the first things I like to do when I decide to throw a party (even if it’s last minute) is to send out email invites via Paperless Post. Guests are more likely to RSVP in a timely manner since it’s so easy to click YES or NO and the fun invites makes the party feel cooler already. Paperless Post has a variety of custom cards and invitations for you to choose from! It’s almost too hard to choose because they are so cute. I personally love this cute pool-themed one and this “drink or swim” one. (This is not a sponsored post FYI – I just love them!)
2. Food + Drinks: Keep it simple – cut up a watermelon, grill burgers/hot dogs/vegetarian options, have a veggie tray. One of my favorite recipes for bringing to BBQs is a watermelon caprese salad. You can always add on the invite for your guests to bring their favorite BBQ snack! For drinks – again keep it simple! Water, a fancy lemonade (then people can add alcohol if they please) and beer.
3. Decor: Here’s the deal. All you really need are string lights (my go-to for outdoor parties), options for seating, a few fun trays for food/drinks to be displayed on and cute blankets/towels. To make it really easy on yourself go for a color scheme of 2-3 colors so when you are at Target perusing the aisles and forgot why you were there in the first place, you will remember to look out for yellow and blue anything!
Here are a few of my favorite colorful outdoor party items:
1 // pineapple ice cube trays?! These are amazing. 2 // cb2 string lights 3 // melamine palm bowls 4 // striped paper cups 5 // h&m aloha beaches fan 6// colorful bamboo trays 7 // cb2 ixtapa blue outdoor lounge chair 8 // h&m turquoise tealight holders 9 // cb2 kilim stripe blanket
Outdoor games are essential for a successful Summer party! Here are a few favorites:
1 // terrain j. franklin field day horseshoes 2 // urban outfitters watermelon slice pool float 3 // one kings lane beach paddles 4 // terrain backyard croquet set 5 // urban outfitters squidgie balls
What are some of your favorite outdoor party tips?!
