5 EASY TIPS FOR YOUR END OF SUMMER BASH

We’re deep into the throes of August, and as cooler temps begin to make their appearance, it’s evident that fall is just around the corner. Summer festivities are not quite over yet, though, and we have a few more weekends to use as the backdrops for summer get-togethers and celebrations! With Labor Day sneaking up, we wanted to share a few of our favorite, simple tips for bringing a unique spin to your end of summer celebration.

1) Create a Serve Yourself Drink Station
Summer epitomizes relaxation and a summery party shouldn’t cause extra stress on your end. Encourage your guests to serve themselves with a cute bar cart and/or DIY cocktail station! Not only does it add a cute, Pinterest-inspired look, but it also takes the pressure off of you to constantly refill and refuel your party attendees.

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2) Serve A Variety of Appetizers
While the prepping and making of the appetizers may take up some of your time on the front end, hosting a party with a variety of small-bite options keeps your guests happy and filled-up the entire time. Want to take more of the load off yourself? Ask every guest to bring an appetizer to share. We’ve found that giving specific assignments (e.g.: “Please bring a hot appetizer” or “Please bring a dessert”) helps eliminate the possibility of ending up with 12 bags of chips and salsa.

Photo Credit: Pinch Me, I'm Eating

3) Use Nature to Decorate
The end of summer is one of our favorite times of year to find fresh, local florals. Dress up the space with simple sprigs, hydrangeas, and greens! Not only does this keep you from spending unnecessary monies at Party City, but it creates a casual, natural environment that keeps the summer-theme thriving.

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4) Light Up the Night
We’re suckers for some good lighting, especially when those lights include outdoor areas! Many times, string lighting goes on clearance toward the end of the summer and it’s often the best time to splurge on a box or two. Mix it up by incorporating various-sized bulbs to add dimension and interest!

Photo Credit: The Style Co

5) Play Summer Favorites All Night Long
Set up your projector, hang a white sheet, add some outdoor poufs, and play classic summer movies throughout the entire party. Your guests don’t necessarily have to sit and watch each film through the whole duration, but having a summer favorite playing in the background takes more pressure off of you to entertain the entire evening. Some of our top summer films include “The Sandlot”, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”, “The Goonies”, and “Dirty Dancing”.

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