With the summer finally here, it’s time to start planning for your big summer bash. And if you’ve been hosting parties for years, make this year’s party a bit different by incorporating new food, themes, and trends.
According to Female First, instead of throwing a party somewhere you’ve been before (like your house or a community center) consider a venue you’ve always wanted to try out. Since summer is all about getting outside, the venue you choose should have an outdoor seating area for people to hang out on. Make sure it’s large enough to hold all of your guests, especially if your party falls on a beautiful day.
If you do choose to have your party somewhere other than your house, you might think about offering your guests free transportation. You’re probably used to people taking limousines or private vehicles for business purposes. In fact, in the United States, stretch limousines are the second most requested vehicle type for business clients. But they’re also great for chauffeuring a large group of people to your summer party. You can even stock the limo or party bus with snacks and drinks to help your guests get the party started before they even arrive.
Speaking of food, you could choose the classic backyard barbecue menu of hot dogs and hamburgers. Or, you could get really creative and make a taco bar. Tacos are a popular meal, as Americans consume over four billion tacos a year. They’re super easy to prepare and even easier to clean up. Many Mexican restaurants offer catering so you can make your party planning a lot less stressful and have someone else cook for you.
According to Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom, the music might just be as important as the party itself. Have a party playlist cued up at the perfect noise level to make sure there are no awkward silences. The music can actually create the mood, but it’s important to make sure it’s kept at a volume where people can still talk to each other.
If you plan on having the party at your home instead of an event space, there are a few things you need to do to make sure everyone is comfortable. Since summer brings the warmer weather with it, make sure your home is stocked with a number of cold drinks and air conditioning. If you don’t have AC, fans and open windows are your next best bet. Having these things readily available will help prevent any of your party goers from developing heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is one of three heat-related syndromes— heat cramps are the mildest and heat stroke is the most extreme.
Corcoran Inhabit says giving your guests a “thank you” gift will make it an unforgettable event. You can give them a small bottle of wine, some leftovers, or a candle and a nice note. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to thank your guests for celebrating the summer with you, so even the smallest gift of a candy bar or some mints is a nice touch.
If you’ve thrown summer parties in the past, make this year’s event one that no one will ever forget. With a taco bar, a great playlist, and a parting gift, your guests will always remember your party as one they thoroughly enjoyed.
