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CASUAL CENTERPIECES
A gathering of wildflowers or elegant peonies make
a pretty centerpiece. Stay away from the more
fragrant of flowers to avoid guests allergic reactions
and of course the unwanted Bee guests visiting your
table. Keep in mind this is not a wedding so don't
go overboard a few stems will provide color and a
festive touch. Anchor arrangements in a sturdy low
vase (Mason jars are a great choice) to avoid tipping
over and to ensure that guests are able to see and
speak to each other while seated.
MASTER THE MUSIC
Get your playlist ready. Luckily
this does not require the effort of
compiling an 80's "mixed tape".
Throw on some classics or set your
station to Pandora (without the
commercials).
Don't crank the speakers. No one
will want to stand near them if
they're blaring. The best setup is
four or more speakers, spread out,
set at a lower volume. If you're using
a boom box or an iPod dock, place
it above ear level so it's not blasting
directly at guests' heads, and turn it
toward the side of the house—you
can make it a little louder and the
sound will spread out better, if it
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has a large solid object to bounce
off from.
Go heavy on classics: the Rolling
Stones, the Beatles, Stevie Wonder,
Michael Jackson—songs that people
recognize. Keep it upbeat, and mix in
some newer tunes here and there.
Try Joe Purdy for a lazy afternoon
vibe, maybe Mazy Starr for when the
sun goes down and you just can't go
wrong with Adele or Sam Smith.
Plan for five hours. Most parties
aren't going to last longer than that,
and if there's anyone who realizes
the playlist has started over at
hour six, well, they probably need
another drink.
3 Playlists for Summer Parties
