How to Throw the Perfect Summer Party

I have accepted the fact that I am my mother’s child and I love to throw a party! And do not let the party have a theme, then we really are about to have the time of our lives.

Because of my love for hosting, I decided to share how to throw a party that people will want to come to and hate that they missed. Personally, I love a good themed party, so these tips will be for you to throw the best summer party ever.

What does the perfect summer party look like? Good food, good drinks, lots of water, a good playlist, and bug spray!

Where’s the food, and where’s the fun?

When you’re hosting a summer party, the first thing you need to do is determine if you’re going to be inside, outside, or hybrid. I would always recommend the hybrid option. This gives people the option, plus you will be able to cool down if it’s too hot outside.

Keep the food and drinks inside, and keep the music and games outside. This way, you won’t have people trying to hide out inside the house. If they want to be part of the fun, they have to be outside.

Now, if you’re going to have people outside, it’s important that you also have shaded areas and cold refreshments available. You do not want anyone to pass out from the possible heat.

What are you feeding people?

Now on to the menu. You want to be as inclusive as possible, but also be reasonable with the menu. Always have at least one vegan and vegetarian option. This way, your friends aren’t stuck eating chips all night long.

For any party besides a dinner party, you want to make sure the food can be eaten while standing or having to eat on your lap. If a person is going to need a knife to eat, you might not want to add that to your menu.

BBQ chicken, rice or mashed potatoes, two types of salad, corn on the cob, cheese and crackers/chips, and a fruit plate is the perfect menu to keep things simple but keep people fed.

And for your drinks, water and ice are a must. You want a light and dark pop, mixers for your liquor, and if you have any non-drinkers, maybe a nice mocktail. (And never judge people for not wanting to drink alcohol).

What games are we playing?

Conversations and a good menu can only keep people entertained for so long. It’s time to pull out the games that will keep the fun rolling and maybe even help you learn a thing or two about your party guests.

If you really want to be known as host royalty, you’ll have games that match the theme of your party.

But if you’re like me, who likes to throw a party just to throw one, here are my go-to games:

• Phase 10

• Never Have I Ever (pg-13 or rated r)

• Mafia

• Charades

• Any classic drinking game you can think of.

With these tips, you’re on your way to becoming the go-to party thrower in your friend group.