Summertime

Hope this finds you all enjoying your summer! Southern California has been on the cool end but how can you complain?

Summer party season is also in full force and with that here are some fun ideas in the sun!

Indoor Summer Party Ideas

Here's how to make the best of an indoor summer party:

1. Make it a beach theme party.
2. Decorate your interiors based on beach themes and use fans, air conditioners, air coolers etc. to keep the room breezy.
3. Move away your chairs and sofas and get some boulders (look-alike cushions will do) and mats with beach towels draped over them.
4. Place a couple of beach umbrellas in the room if you can get hold of some.
5. Use a 'beach scene' wallpaper on a prominent wall.
6. If a projector can be arranged, use it to project a 'live' beach scene on a wall.
7. Keep the dress code for the party a beach theme'. That doesn't necessarily mean swimsuits - sailors and fish can also be included. Let your guests be creative!
8. An old surf board will also add to the look.
9. Serve seafood and lots of cool beverages.
10. As for you...get a special look - how about a mermaid dress with sequined seashells?

Outdoor Summer Party Ideas

A lawn, garden, a local park or even your backyard will be a lovely place to host your summer party outdoors.

1. Clean Up! Whichever spot you choose, be sure to clean it up thoroughly to avoid any hazards for your guests.
2. Make proper arrangements for ample light and mosquito repellents. Lanterns can be hung on tree trunks to present a lovely sight.
3. If the party is not on a very short notice, prepare in advance. Build a Garden Pond. It would be the 'coolest' thing to happen to your party!
4. A garden figure such as a birdbath or a small fountain will complete the picture.
5. You can set up a tent and make your party a 'Camping Party'. You can also have a 'Campfire'. If there are no open fires - some pieces of wood with red construction paper can work just as well... with a little imagination!
6. A game of scavenger hunt with clues to the prize hidden under small rocks, flower petals, tree trunks etc. will spice up the evening.
7. If you have a musical talent amongst your guests, be sure to arrange for a guitar or other such musical instrument or let that guest know beforehand to come prepared with it.
8. A gas barbecue will be perfect for the food, but if you don't have one - improvise with a charcoal grill or super sandwiches and salads.
9. Use paper plates and other disposable utensils. Place neatly painted garbage cans for trash. If your community recycles, make sure to have a separate place to toss empty cans.
10. If you have a swimming pool nearby, a 'Moonlight Swim' will be the perfect finale to your Summer Party... If there's no swimming pool have some scary stories ready to tell around the campfire and bring back memories of summer camp...before everyone goes home to bed!

Enjoy your summer!