How to Throw the Ultimate Summer Party: A Response to a Stolen Memorial Day
Am I the only one who feels robbed of a Memorial Day celebration this year? Of course, most important of all, we had the ability to reflect on those courageous folks who’ve served our country. And yes, we had the long weekend and places around the country were gradually opening up, allowing some folks to gallivant (hopefully six feet away from each other). But overall, I don’t think any of us were mentally prepared to actually relax and enjoy a weekend of festivities, as we may have planned a few months back.
I’m also bitter because I was supposed to be celebrating Memorial Day for one of my best friend’s bachelorette weekends (ladies, hopefully we’ll make it to Fire Island soon!). Instead, I was forced to sulk in my hammock at home with a margarita (not the worst thing, I know) and as much of a first world problem as this may seem, I say we’re all entitled to a second celebratory summer day. A faux-holiday where we can dedicate one day to completely forgetting all of the weirdness that we’ve been made to endure over the past few months – National Forgettance Day? I’m definitely open to ideas.
For sake of consistency, we’ll be celebrating National Forgettance Day sometime towards the end of July, so that we can have ample time to prepare the summer party of our dreams. A party where we can truly relax, let loose and blissfully forget (most safely at home).
Now give me a good theme and I’ll run with it, so the fact that we want to dedicate a sunny summer day to the act of forgetting, reverts me to childhood times of lavish birthday parties, kindergarten graduations and over-the-top milestones – such as my first birthday, where my mom had just about every vendor in the driveway — from ponies, to clowns and catered cuisine, an opulent affair that I can only remember thanks to my grandma’s laminated photo albums, but nothing else.
So, what’s the secret to hosting the most epically forgettable summer party at home? Well booze definitely helps, but you want to make sure that you have all the perfect props to create a vibe conducive of fun, laughter and lots of good photo opportunities (that you can use to later recall the greatest Forgettance Day party of all time, duh)!
From what to wear to virtual activities (to ensure everybody is included), see below for the GALA guide for throwing the ultimate Forgettance Day party – or just the best summer come-back party of 2020!
The Floats
One of my favorite brands to incorporate into any backyard party is FUNBOY floats. Pool or not, these are the trendiest inflatable designs for a range of millennial aesthetics. These are way more than just pool floats, but luxury inflatable designs that can transcend from colorful kid party to chic minimalist adult soiree. They’re so artistically crafted, they also double as eye-catching backdrops and party props without seeming cheesy.
As a pool-less lover of surrealism, I was immediately smitten by the brand’s latest release – the Clear Red Lip Couch. Boasting kissable comfort, the couch features a translucent red material reminiscent of the neon inflatable furniture that I lusted after as a pre-teen. Perfect for sunbathing in or out of the water, the couch also features a cup holder for endless lounging.
For those of you with little ones (or if you don’t have a pool and would totally run around your yard for fun), the new Rocketship Sprinkler is absolute summer party goals, standing at more than seven and a half feet tall, with four water sprayers, it’s 360 degrees of water fun for all of your partygoers! Also, totally on trend with the recent space launch.
Photo via FUNBOY
Along with adult-sized inflatable pools and dreamy floats (check out the majestic Rose Gold Crown Island or the Yacht Float to see what I’m talking about), you can snag other luxe party props from FUNBOY, including stylish drink holders, coolers, apparel and trendy towels.
Shop now and use discount code “galalife” for an exclusive 15% discount on any product. FUNBOY is a family-owned brand, offering products that are ethically sourced and free of harmful chemicals. Every purchase currently provides a donation across organizations focused on combating racial injustice, including The Minnesota Freedom Fund, NAACP and Black Lives Matter.
The Shade
An outdoor décor trend that I’m absolutely obsessed with is the fringed umbrella. Whether going for a Bali-style tropical look or crisp Hamptons vacay, the fringed umbrella is sure to make a statement. This navy blue and white nautical take on the fringe by Business & Pleasure Co. is the perfect addition to any outdoor soiree (and would also be perfect to reuse for 4th of July and beyond!).
The Seat
Oh have I got the seat for you! Not to mention that it’s a unique, portable, functional and comfortable chair for your summer shindig. The Society 6 sling chair makes for the perfect outdoor buddy, with a hammock-style seat made from UV and water resistant, custom-printed polyester fabric, so you can literally post up just about anywhere and relax in major style. The best part is that they even have cool towels and coolers that you can coordinate to your chair!
The Outfit
Obviously, the host of this lavish affair MUST be dressed to the nines! Whether feeling more of a trendy bikini vibe, classy one-piece suit or some funky loungewear, Beach Riot has got you covered. From the beach to the streets, Beach Riot is an incredible female-owned brand, with artfully crafted designs and on-trend styles hat can elevate any backyard party from home-down to get-down!
The Eats
For a Forgettance Day party, I find a light, refreshing meal pairs perfectly with lots of sunshine, dancing and sparkling cocktails. These chili lime shrimp tacos hit the spot for any backyard rendezvous. They’re healthy, easy to make and pack spicy, citrusy kick.
Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients
(makes about 8 tacos)
· 24 large raw shrimp, peeled, recommend removing the tail
· 16 small corn tortillas
· 4 cups shredded cabbage
· ½ tbsp minced jalapenos
· 1 tbsp olive oil
· 3 garlic cloves minced
· 1 lime zested and juiced
· ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
· ¼ tsp paprika
· ¼ tsp chili powder
· 1 diced avocado
· Dash of sea salt
· Salsa for serving
Instructions
1. Combine shrimp in a bowl with olive oil, lime zest, minced garlic, paprika, chili powder, red pepper flake and ¼ tsp salt. Toss to combine and set aside to marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Toss the cabbage with jalapeno, 1 tbsp of lime juice and a pinch of salt, set aside.
3. Warm tortillas in a skillet over low heat, flipping.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, pour shrimp in. Sear for 1-2 minutes on one side, flip and sear on the other side until pink all the way through, another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and remember not to overcook!
5. To assemble, layer two tortillas, top with lime slaw, some shrimp and avocado. Top with salsa and fresh squeeze of lime.
Libation
If you’re not already a lover of Chrissy Teigen, her recipe for her adult Watermelon Slushie, will make you a total convert. Straight from her Cravings cookbook, the delightful vodka watermelon slushie is a refreshing frothy concoction, that’s actually pretty healthy (for a fruity summer cocktail) and will be the refreshing top-off to your epic summer party. Not only is the slushie frozen, pink and delicious, if you’re not a fan of vodka, Chrissy (totally on first name basis with her already), advises that vodka can be swapped out with your choice of liquor, such as tequila or white wine. I tried it with some smoky mezcal and it was AMAZING!
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice
1/4 cup sugar
4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
1 cup chilled (preferably frozen) vodka
Lemon or lime wheels and mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions
1. Combine the lime juice and sugar in a small bowl and stir until dissolved.
2. Arrange watermelon in a 9x13 baking dish, then pour the sugar and lime juice mixture all over the watermelon. Freeze for at least four hours and up to 24 hours.
3. Transfer the frozen watermelon and any frozen liquid to a blender. Add vodka and blend until slushy.
4. Pour into glasses and garnish with lime wheels and mint sprigs. Sip and enjoy!
Game Time
Aside from great conversation, amazing eats and decorative props, you want to add a bit of entertainment to the mix. Forever the perpetual child, I’m all about a good hands-on activity, like some Giant Jenga or this awesome oversized inflatable dartboard. You can even grab an old game of twister, use your FUNBOY sprinkler and call it aquatic Olympics. The point is to get creative, get outside and get your body moving — and having a few laughs along the way doesn’t hurt either. Have even more fun with this, by setting up a zoom challenge where all of your distanced friends can also compete, or just laugh at you while you bust your butt.
Party Playlist
Stream these summer starters on your speakers to welcome the seasonal sun! You can also share GALA’s virtual playlist with loved ones who may celebrating in other parts of the world. Music has infinite reach and is the best way to get a party started!
Remember to Always Keep Galavanting! xx Alexia