Cool off with an island luau

April 28, 2009

As temperatures begin to rise, more families may turn to their pool as a source of relief and as an excuse to throw a party for friends and family.

One of the more popular themes for pool parties is a Hawaiian luau, mostly because it incorporates the laid-back atmosphere that always seems to permeate near a pool.

For a luau, ask guests to wear bright clothing or actual Hawaiian shirts. Be sure to purchase some cheap leis to welcome your guests in style.

Party decorations should have an island theme, but because a pool is involved, and inevitably a lot of water splashing, paper decorations may not be ideal.

Instead, why not use actual tropical fruits and place them around the area? Creating a centerpiece on the main table with pineapples, oranges and coconuts can be a nice touch.

Finally, when the sun sets, bring some scented candles out for the guests or light some store-bought tiki torches scattered throughout the yard. Either will give your party a tropical island feel even if you're enjoying it in the middle of suburbia.