Who doesn’t love a good party? As a guest, it’s low stakes– you go and enjoy and exercise those social social skills that are likely still recovering from a pandemic hibernation. But there’s something uniquely gratifying about hosting and being responsible for facilitating that joy and connection — despite the work and planning involved. And there really is no better time to do it than summer, when everyone is feeling a little more carefree and, as they say, the livin’ is easy. Whether it’s an intimate dinner gathering or a boozy barbecue, here are some tips from experts to help you host a successful soirée.
To-do
Plan, plan and plan some more.
“Throwing a party might seem straightforward, but the devil is in the details,” said Cameron Forbes, founder of Forbes Functions, a boutique luxury event planning company based in New York City and the Hamptons. “A few obvious yet often overlooked elements that can make or break your event include the timing of invitations, weather contingencies, the flow of the space, testing sound and lighting equipment, and curating a solid seating chart. Regarding invitations, it might sound basic, but sending them on time is crucial. Too early, and guests might forget; too late, and they might already have plans. I recommend sending out invites about 4 to 6 weeks in advance for most events. And don’t forget to think about how people will move through the event space or venue. I recommend creating distinct areas for eating, drinking, dancing, lounging and mingling to avoid bottlenecks.”
To beach or not to beach
Experts say yes — if you have all the logistics down. How do you get your supplies in and out? How are drinks staying cool? Are alcoholic beverages permitted? Will there be enough shade? Access to a bathroom? Do you need a permit? One method to address some of these unknowns is to partner with a beachfront hotel to help you host. Remember, access to AC for a little relief is priceless in these situations.
Yes to themed parties
“They are such a fun way to make your event stand out to guests. Unless your theme is wildly outlandish or niche, most guests enjoy dressing up and immersing themselves in the experience,” Forbes said. “Some of the most popular and relatively relaxed themes we’ve planned for clients include masquerade parties, disco parties, Marie-Antoinette and coquette-themed events, murder mystery parties, Italian and Dolce Vita-inspired events, and “RIP to my twenties” parties. Some of the more crazy themes we’ve planned for clients include a Grease-inspired event, a 1980s prom-themed summer soirée, a dynamic duo party for a set of twins, a coastal cowgirl summer soirée, and a Saltburn-themed birthday.”
It’s the little things
Consider custom cocktail menus, place cards or party favors like matches; all are easy to design on sites like Canva.
Hire help
It’s a worthy investment that allows you to enjoy yourself more — and also elevates the experience for guests — a professional bartender? Impressive. Racquel Guyton of St. Germain Creative recommends this site. Work out a tip with staff beforehand and handle it yourself (please, no cash tip jars).
What to serve
Prioritize food that will hold up in the heat. Think charcuterie boards, dips, marinated olives, crudités, elevated pasta and potato salads. You can also purchase something like this, which you can fill with ice to keep your food cool.
The drink of the summer
Is resoundingly a Huge Spritz: a refreshing mix of St-Germain elderflower liqueur, Prosecco, seltzer and mint. Otherwise, experts recommend sticking to three-ingredient cocktails like margaritas, Manhattans and negronis. Make sure to throw plenty of non-alcoholic beverages into the mix, and consider NA beer and spirits, more and more of which are entering the market.
Ice ice, baby
“Do not underestimate the amount of ice you will need,” Guyton emphasized. Think about how much you will need — and then buy at least double that, even if it means purchasing a cooler for additional storage.
Weather the weather
Every summer is now the hottest summer; make sure you have enough shade for everyone. Something like this sunshade is a good option. And if you want to take it to the next level, provide a basket of inexpensive handheld fans. And of course, plan for rain, whether that means having a tent or ensuring there is ample indoor space
The perfect playlist
“I love using Spotify to find great curated ones,” said Forbes. “Some of my most popular searches for summer parties include terms like ‘summer soirée,’ ‘summer dinner party,’ ‘coastal party,’ and ‘coastal grandmother.’”
Be a good guest
You probably know this, but don’t show up empty-handed. A bottle of wine or booze is always appreciated, and typically gets put to good use. Flowers are nice. Just don’t bring something that requires any extra work by the host — think… a pie that requires slicing and plating, as opposed to a tray of brownies. But the consensus among experts is to bring a bottle of something.
What’s your #1 party tip? Let us know in the comments.