Summer comes early at Luau parties!

February 23, 2010

March is right around the corner, which means longer, brighter days and warmer weather for most parts of the country. The pleasant weather and promise of summer is sure to put a bounce in almost everyone's step, so why not throw a luau party to celebrate the good things to come?

As soon as a spring breeze drifts though an open window, it's tempting to throw on some sunglasses, slip on your sandals and head to the great outdoors . . . even though sometimes it's still a little bit chilly.

Throw a luau party centered on warmth and the sun to give your friends and family a taste of the summer months.

Send out luau invitations that make your intentions clear. Guests should know that a bathing suit, sundress or Hawaiian shirt are all mandatory.

Bring the summer to you!

Even if it's not a tropical paradise outside, make sure to keep it nice and warm inside so that guests feel comfortable in their warm-weather gear. Crank up the heat, turn on some sun lamps and light a few tropical scented candles to create a South Pacific vibe.

Of course, you'll want to stock up on luau party supplies like silk flower bracelets, patterned party plates, tiki torches, flowered grass table skirt and tie dye silk flower leis.

Make sure to provide your guests with all of their luau party needs, like plastic leis, beachcomber hats, puca shell necklaces and hula skirts.

Turn your party space into a tiki lounge

If you have a party space in your home, like a bar or lounge area, now is the perfect time to take advantage of it. Search for luau decorations that will work with your space – like grass banners for above a bar or tiki lanterns for a touch of Hawaii.

Of course, if you go through all of the effort of creating a tropical paradise, you'll want your guests to get the full effect. Serve tropical, exotic drinks from coconuts or large, LED glasses. Search for cocktail recipes that include coconut flavored rum or pineapple juice.

Hand out leis as party favors, and let your guests take their puca necklaces and hula skirts home with them as souvenirs .

Don't throw the rest of your luau party supplies away, because the summer is sure to bring more opportunities to use them!