There is certainly no shortage of pool parties in the Valley this time of year. But there are ways to be sure that yours is the most fabulous one of the summer – truly a pool party to remember. With insider tips from Kristen Forgione of The LifeStyled Company, we have no doubt that your party will be the event of the season.
#1. Invitations
Forgione suggests keeping the invitations casual and using a source online such as Evite.com or Punchbowl.com. You will save tons of time by not having to chase down current addresses. Also, online sources make RSVPs as simple as the click of a mouse, allowing you to plan your party accordingly. Forgione swears by Evite.com and Punchbowl.com’s “easy to use, colorful and festive invitations” that are “perfect for any pool party!”
#2. Guest List & Time
Make sure you don’t go too crazy with your guest list – try to keep it under 35 people to ensure a manageable party. If you’re throwing a party with families, Forgione feels you should ask those guests to arrive at noon and stay until 5pm. The party should turn “adults only” at 2pm and continue on through the night!
#3. Food
Potluck-style is a great way to take a bit of the stress off of your back. “Ask all of your guests to bring two dishes, one main and one side or dessert,” said Forgione. If they would rather bring drinks, great! Be sure you have non-alcoholic options as well. “Get creative with fun names centered around pool, water, the sea, the beach, etc.”
#4. Games
Ping-pong tournaments or pool volleyball are games guaranteed to win over your guests. Set up teams and tournaments prior to your guests arriving to make certain that everyone is involved. Remember to allow guests time to relax and sip on poolside cocktails as well – don’t pack your party too full of activities.
#5. Decorations
This summer, it’s all about neon. That’s right – neon is back and brighter than ever. As stated by Forgione: “It’s almost like 80s meets the beach. Fill that pool [with] different sized beach balls, set lounge chairs with bright cabana striped towels and decorate tables [with] citronella candles, always available in bright colors!”
#6. Music
DJs are a great way to take your pool party to the next level. They really know how to get people going. As Forgione put it, a DJ is “a sure fire way to get the best mix of music and atmosphere!” However, if a DJ is not in your budget, or your best interest, make a rad playlist either using Spotify or Pandora to keep a steady flow of your favorite summertime hits.
