Memorial Day weekend officially kicks off the start of summer for most people. Warm weather, late nights, barbeques and good memories are all part of the season. You probably already know how to throw a get-together, but you can ensure your summer party is a hit with these four tips. From sending out the right invites to preparing for the unexpected, here are four ways to make sure your next bash is one for the books.
Send out Invitations Early
While impromptu backyard barbeques and pool parties are fun, a proper summer party should be planned in advance. Design some colorful, fun invitations online and send them to your friends and family a week or two before your party. This will give people enough time to respond and relieves the pressure to accept an immediate invitation. Make sure your invitations include the location’s address, time, dress code and proposed menu. Encourage any guests with dietary restrictions to RSVP early so you can make the right accommodations. Not an artist? Don’t worry. Canva is a free graphic design program that allows you to make beautiful summer party invitations using a variety of professionally designed templates.
Prepare Your Home to Accommodate Your Guests
Is the air conditioner running? Do you have adequate seating and enough space for everyone? Is your home pet and child-friendly for guests that may bring their four-legged friends or little ones? It doesn’t hurt to get your HVAC serviced for summer now. A summer heating and cooling tune-up ensures that you and your guests will be able to stay cool and comfortable. You should also add some extra seating and make sure that your indoors is just as welcoming and prepared as the outdoors. Get some seat covers and tablecloths that you can easily remove and wash, just in case some food or beverages wind up spilling.
Have a Backup Plan
It never hurts to have a Plan B. In case of an unexpected summer storm or another turn of events, make sure you have a way to keep the party rolling. If you’re hosting at a venue, prepare your home as a backup. If you’re hosting a backyard party, prep the inside as well.
Tie it All Together
Food, friends and good music are all you need to have a great party, but preparation never hurts. Whether you’ve planned a big party before or you just like to be organized, these tips will help you plan ahead and make sure that everyone has a good time. When you take the effort to prepare your event beforehand, you guarantee your own relaxation and enjoyment on the big day.
You’ll never know when you need more paper towels, plates or snacks. Buy extra supplies, especially paper plates and cutlery, so no one has to go without essentials at your party.