If you haven’t gotten around to hosting an “impromptu” pool party, you’d better get down on it. It can’t possibly get any hotter ~ can it? ~ and Labor Day will be here before you know it.
Don’t overthink it. The key for most of us is that it all has to be easily transported TO the pool, since we aren’t lucky enough to have one in our backyard.
Here’s what every good summer pool party worth its margarita salt needs:
- A couple of tubs or coolers of iced beverages. Waters for the kids.
- A refreshing summer drink. 2016 is the year of the Prosecco Popsicle Drink, as well as the Wine Slushie. If you aren’t near a freezer, then check out these Summertime PITCHER drinks. Cute cups too.
- Light Bites and Apps – everyone brings one plus the serving stuff and paper plates, napkins.
- A killer playlist on your fully charged phone (bring a charger in case you go long)
- Some cute & festive party decor
A cooler is fine, but a couple of insulated SCOUT or YETI totes are easier to carry from your car to the pool, and keep drinks, foods and serving ware separate.
Depending on where your pool party is, you may or may not be able to bring in adult beverages. You may be able to buy them there, or you may have to camouflage them in. Since no one has ever taste tested anything that I’ve been party to, I think a nice adult bevvie from a pitcher or jug, served in cute cups, will usually pass inspection.
Every summer patio party needs a solid appetizer spread. You don’t want to be that girl who buys a pre-made cheese plate from Harris Teeter and catches some serious shade from the hostess. Mango Guacamole is the perfect recipe for you. Guac is the ultimate crowd pleaser, and surprisingly easy to make. Throw in some mango and you’ve got a tropical fiesta ready in no time. If you’re making this more than a few hours in advance, make sure to press a layer of plastic wrap directly on top of the guacamole- nothing is more cringe-worthy than brown guac. Keep it chilled until ready to serve!
INGREDIENTS
– 3 avocados
– 1/2 jalepeño, seeded and diced (leave the seeds in if you’re insane and want it really spicy)
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 mango, diced ( if you need a tutorial, click here)
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 lime
DIRECTIONS
– Halve the avocados and remove the pits.
– Remove pits, cube inside the skin (cut large chunks), and scoop into a bowl
– Add the onions, jalapeños, & mango. Squeeze in lime juice. Lightly mash with fork until you reach desired consistency.
– Stir in cilantro
– Add salt to taste
Adapted from The Pioneer Woman
We like melamine and acrylic for light, relatively unbreakable transporting. Again, Swoozie’s has some cute, fairly inexpensive options to make things seem a little more than just your average poolside meet up.
If your pool already plays music, then you may be set. You’ve probably heard enough Swim Team Queen to last a lifetime. But never underestimate the power of a good playlist. It is the easiest legal way to rev up any gathering you have. Every get-together you host should have its own playlist ~ that’s my rule. Bring along these bluetooth speakers to make sure everyone can enjoy the sounds of your summer.
