 |
| Image Source: luxuryretreats.com |
With summer drawing to a close you might want to consider getting that last dose of hosting in, which conveniently doubles as a practice round before pool party season sneaks up on you in St Barts and Cabo. We caught up with party planner Amy Abbott to get some expert advice on how to make your next poolside gathering go with a splash, not a whimper. You’ll be surprised to find that the super chic Ralph Lauren ad campaign you envisioned can actually happen in real life–and you barely have to break a sweat (or hire models) to be the host with the most.
On paper, the pool party is a concept that promises an effortlessly chic event. Especially if you have a poster-worthy pool. When you picture it, an image of guests clad in classic swimwear, cocktails in hand appears. The sky is hazy, the music is light but essential, the food is present but not center stage. There might even be someone in the pool. But a few small details must be considered in order to promise the decent weather forecast and droves of party-goers get the warm welcome they deserve.
Clear Expectations
The plan for the day should be as clear to your guests as your pool water (side note: vacuum the pool before the party). Your guests will appreciate this, it’s hard to get excited for an event when you’re overwhelmed with uncertainty;”Should I bring a change of clothes? Do I need to eat before coming? Are the kids invited?” Do yourself, and everyone else, a favor by answering these questions before the party begins. For example, if you plan to carry the event into the evening, recommend a change of clothes–nothing kills a vibe more than a wet bathing suit under a sundress. If it’s an all-ages event a simple “Water wings will be provided for the little swimmers!” will get the message across. If there’s a set time guests are to arrive, state it clearly.
Amy’s Pro Tip: A formal invitation isn’t necessary for a casual pool party. An e-mail outlying all of the basics will do.
Safety First
We know. Safety is always the boring part. But it’s the most important factor to ensure your party goes off without a hitch. It’s the small things that make a big difference: have a basket of sunscreen available; if there are children coming, have water wings on hand; extra sun hats are good too. Even if your favorite hosting outfit includes heels, veer away: a slippery poolside deck doesn’t mesh well with platforms. On that note, pick up a few pairs of flip flops for guests and encourage them to get comfortable too. And never forget the cardinal rule of poolside eating and drinking: no glassware!
Amy’s Pro Tip: Keep a designated shade area–not everyone wants to get a tan. Have spray bottles with water around too as a fun way to cool down.
Style your Event
One of the benefits of a pool party is that most of the decorating is already done for you: your garden and man-made waterfall speak for themselves. For a casual outdoor event, it’s always best to keep decorations simple; grab a handful of colorful flowers from the garden and bundle them in a vase. Music, of course, is essential. Many homes are ahead of the game with outdoor Bose sound systems, but if your space isn’t equipped with one, Jawbone‘s Jambox is a colourful, powerful and waterproof alternative that will do the trick.
Amy’s Pro Tip: If you’re planning to provide towels, have them specially monogrammed for your guests to double as great party favors.
Refreshment Round-Up
Remember that pool parties are not dinner parties. Guests aren’t expecting a 7-course meal. Keep it as simple as possible: less mess, less stress. Prepare as many items as you can beforehand, finger foods are ideal because there won’t be any dirty dishes to tend to. Have food dispersed throughout the party area, so no matter where people are congregating, there’s a little something to snack on nearby. Scorching sun, alcohol and an empty stomach aren’t a good combination. Prepare a welcome cocktail for guests as they arrive, and then offer self-serve beer and wine as the party continues. Serve your punch in an enclosed jar with a tap, because no one likes a fly in their drink.
Amy’s Pro Tip: Remember to include a non-alcoholic option for your guests.
Here are two refreshing summer drinks (one with alcohol, one without), to whet your appetite:
 |
| Image Source: luxuryretreats.com |
Blue World Pools provides high-quality above ground swimming pools in various locations in the U.S.. To find the right pool for your needs and budget, go here.
