Throw the Coolest Pool Party
Read our must-haves for ensuring your next bash makes a big splash for the whole family!
Design: H3K Design
http://www.wayfair.com/Shop-The-Look/Designer/H3K-Design-D3344
School's out for summer and we can't wait to cool down, poolside. Dive right in to find our best tips for a safe, fun-in-the-sun party by the pool.
Pool Party Prep
Design: PS Luxury Rentals
http://www.wayfair.com/Shop-The-Look/Designer/PS-Luxury-Rentals-D67228
Invite friends and family. Keep guest count under the capacity of the pool, though. If you plan to invite children, let parents know if they are welcome to drop their kids off and pick them up later, or if they should stay for the party and help supervise kids in the pool. Other important details include what to bring; extra clothes, towel, sunscreen, floaties, etc.
Clean the pool. Skim leaves, debris, and bugs out of the water and check the chlorine levels. If you need to balance and shock the water, it should be done a few days ahead of the party. Clean, clear water is much more inviting and better for swimming than cloudy, funky water.
S tock up on supplies. You can't have enough sunglasses, sunscreen, and towels. Have extras on standby in case guests forget to bring theirs. Life jackets and arm floats are ideal also if young children are attending. Extra floats, pool noodles, goggles, and pool games and toys are great for keeping everyone entertained.
Setup the deck. Make sure there are enough tables and chairs and a few shady spots for guests to duck away from the sun. Take your pick from gazebos, umbrellas, and pergolas to find what will work best for your poolside.
Install outdoor lighting. Make sure pool lights and outdoor lighting are ready to turn on in case party keeps going after the sun goes down. Pathways and steps are the most important to illuminate.
Jump on In
Go over pool rules. Make sure guests know the pool rules and how to stay safe. Whether you abide by wait-thirty-minutes-before-swimming or not, it's better to be safe than sorry—and be sure to have an adult supervising the pool at all times.
Pump up the jams. No pool party is complete without a great soundtrack. Our favorite way to turn up the beat is with the Bose® SoundLink® Mini, which connects to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth® up to 30 feet away. Don't be fooled by the compact size, this speaker plays dramatically deep bass and crisp, clear high notes.
Grab a plate. Stage food tables and beverage coolers away from the pool. Don't go overboard, though: A classic barbecue, complete with burgers, watermelon, popsicles, and drinks is more than enough. Not your ideal menu? You also can't go wrong with a poolside pizza party.
