Planning a summer celebration and still looking for inspiration? Welcome Aboard!
Last month, I attended a fabulous luncheon hosted by Ridgewells Caterers. Aptly themed "
Sailing into Summer", the party was held at the Flying Bridge, a nautically designed rooftop venue overlooking the US Capitol, Washington Monument and Union Station in Washington, DC. The food, drinks and decor reminded me of my travel-inspired event planning article in the current issue of I Am Modern magazine, specifically -
Welcome Aboard (or even
Coastal Clambake).
WELCOME ABOARD
Stay poolside for this luxurious excursion. Greet guests with a fruity concoction on the "Lido Deck," offer to take their photo (a great souvenir), and encourage them to sit back and admire the evening sunset. Add sunscreen, exotic flora and a Steel Drum Band for a complete cruise experience.
COASTAL CLAMBAKE Evoke seashore charm with a seafood feast! Think lobsters and drawn butter; blue and white nautical décor accented with seashells and lanterns and, of course, seersucker attire. Your guests will feel like they are at Martha's Vineyard. Sand is optional.
SOUTHWESTERN STYLE Create the desert experience without the overly hot temps! Focus on neutral colors with turquoise and copper accents, succulent table arrangements, Mariachi music and flavorful Tex-Mex cuisine. Golden margaritas are essential.
SUMMER IN THE CITY Beat the heat with a rooftop dance party. Go all out with an urban vibe - contemporary music, graffiti artist and food truck. Skyline not necessary.
BACK COUNTRY ADVENTURE Look no further than your backyard for an extreme outdoor adventure. Pair the thrill of ziplining or rock climbing with a relaxing BBQ, cold beer and campfire. Bonus - swap travel stories ´round the fire.
When planning your travel-themed summer party, here are a few things to keep in mind:
STRIVE FOR AUTHENTICITY: Leverage globes, maps, travel books, postcards, luggage and other destination items for a real look and feel. If you don't own these items, borrow from your neighbors, buy from World Market or rent from a local decorating company.
STRIVE FOR AN EXPERIENCE: Along the lines of authenticity, create a celebration that truly reflects the destination. Incorporate popular foods, entertainment and activities; many items can be sourced locally. "When in Rome" should be your mantra.
STRIVE FOR FUN: Celebrations are meant to be fun! Ensure a good time by planning ahead, doing only what you are capable of and/or have time to do, and buying/hiring the rest. "Keep it simple" should be another planning mantra.
