Throw a luau in your own backyard
If you're planning a summer theme party, consider throwing a luau. Luaus are always a hit because they are easy, laid-back and fun. Planning the décor for a luau is simple, and you don't need to spend a lot of money to pull it off. Some inexpensive supplies and a little creativity are all you need to make your back yard feel like Honolulu. Does this Spark an idea?
Wearable Decor
Get the guests involved by handing out wearable décor. You can find inexpensive silk leis and grass skirts at most party stores. Put a lei around the neck of each guest as arriving at the party. You could also make beachy hair pins using a hot glue gun to attach inexpensive hair clips to silk tropical flowers. Guests will have fun dressing up, and the vibrant colors of their tropical accessories will add to the décor of the party.
Edible Centerpieces
Skip the tacky tissue paper table centerpieces and go with the real thing. Buy a variety of fruit from a bulk discount store. Pineapples, coconuts, mangoes and other exotic fruits can be arranged in clusters at the center of the tables. Fill it in with less expensive options such as apples and oranges, and then place a few tropical flowers in the mix. The result will be stunning edible centerpieces full of color and delicious scents. Not sure what to do with all the extra fruit? Encourage guests to take fruit home with them as a parting gift.
Lighting
If you're lucky enough to have the weather cooperate, an outdoor luau won't require much more décor than the beauty that a summer evening can provide. Add lighting and ambiance with a roaring bonfire and candles on the table. Buy inexpensive tiki torches from a party store to surround the perimeter of the party. Just be careful that the flames are not near any flammable party decorations. Another option is to string colored lights around the area where you have the party. They're safer to use, and you can even find lights in the shapes of flowers, pineapples and other things that fit the theme.
Dining Decor
Instead of using regular old cups and plates, splurge on fun glasses for your guests' cocktails. You can usually find cheap plastic versions at any party store. The fun cups mimic tiki glasses, coconut shells and make fun colorful additions to the table décor. Top off drinks with brightly colored paper umbrellas.
Tags: party store, tropical flowers