Create a Splash by Setting Your Summer Pool Party Apart

Despite how many planned and impromptu pool parties you’ll attend (or throw) this summer, you’re sure to have a ball splashing around with family, friends and coworkers. Here are some ideas that you can follow or become inspired by to make your pool party stand out.
The sight of your backyard decked out in themed décor will get your guests’ festive funks flowing. Thinking about your preferences and your guests’ personalities can aid you in deciding on a suitable theme. A long table doesn’t have to be donned in finger food and refreshments alone. Instead some fun and theme-related frills can keep the edibles company. From sunglasses as napkin rings to beach towels as table runners, the possibilities are limitless. Another eye pleasing party favor is arranging your backyard furniture around the pool with tables between chairs for those who prefer spectating and sipping.
Along with colorful rafts, a simple-to-make floating cooler is a great addition to your pool. Cut a pool noodle into quarters that suit a plastic tub and run a rope through the hole in the centers. Fit your construction around the rim of the plastic tub, tying the rope tightly and voilà! You’ve made a mini-island full of canned and bottled libations. Another touch to your party’s ambiance is umbrellas placed at varying intervals, which also provide extra shade for your guests who will likely need breaks from the sunshine while preferring to stay outside to socialize.
Along with these quirky ideas, there are logistical matters to consider when throwing your pool party. Aside from the obvious checks—spare towels, sunscreen and extra drinking water—there are some provisions that could slip past your party prep radar. Some guests may prefer to change into or out of their swimsuits upon arriving or leaving the party. Designating (and marking) a changing and bag storage room beforehand will make this a seamless process for both your guests and yourself, ticking off one more hosting duty before it even has the chance to arise.
Another step to help both your guests and yourself is using plastic cups for drinks. Broken glass is not only a hassle to deal with, but a safety hazard to barefooted party goers. You can use dishwasher safe cups that you already have or, if you’d like to keep to the theme of your party, buy new, complementing ones. Finally, depending on the time of your party, you may want to consider how you’re going to cope with mosquitoes and other bothersome insects. Whether you opt for citronella candles or a more long-term solution like a misting system, it’s good to have a game plan before these unwelcome visitors arrive.
Adding a little flare and formality to your pool party can make it truly exceptional and go off without a hitch. Once you’ve set up and welcomed the guests it’s time to turn up the music and watch the fun unfurl. After all, what ultimately gets the party going is a host who knows when work is over and play has begun.