Get Your Backyard Ready To Host a Pool Party
Hello, fellow party planners! As the weather warms up, it's time to start prepping your backyard for some fun in the sun. Hosting a pool party requires more than just inflating some floaties and firing up the grill. The perfect outdoor space isn't complete without the right furniture and essentials.
Relax Around the Pool
To create a comfortable environment for your pool party, you’ll need some basic pieces of furniture. Getting your outdoor furniture pieces right is part of making a memorable and enjoyable experience for the people you care about.
Outdoor Chaise Lounges and Umbrellas
Invest in outdoor chaise lounges so your guests can relax and soak up the sun in comfort. Look for lounges with adjustable features that will allow people to find their preferred reclining position. Pair them with stylish umbrellas for protection from the sun's rays. Add a touch of comfort by buying cushions made of fabrics that are fade-resistant and easy to clean.
Outdoor Daybeds
Outdoor daybeds are an elegant upgrade to your poolside. Spacious loungers like these provide ample seating, lounging, socializing, or even napping space. When shopping for outdoor daybeds, prioritize comfort and durability. Look for models with plush mattresses that dry quickly and will hold up in inclement weather.
Outdoor Chairs
Accommodate guests of all ages and preferences with thoughtfully chosen outdoor chairs. You might want to supply a variety of seating options, like classic Adirondack chairs, sleek modern designs, or comfortable lounge chairs, to make sure everyone can find a spot to relax and enjoy the party. Consider how often you’ll need to rearrange your outdoor space; you may want to buy chairs that are lightweight and easy to move.
Accent Your Party
In addition to providing comfortable seating options, adding thoughtful accents to your outdoor space can set the mood for your pool party.
Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs are a simple yet effective way to define and anchor your outdoor seating area while also adding a touch of style. Find rugs that are specifically designed for outdoor use, as they are made from durable materials that can withstand exposure to sunlight and moisture without fading or mildewing.
Outdoor Cushions and Pillows
Outdoor cushions and pillows add comfort to your seating arrangements and serve as decorative accents that tie different pieces of your outdoor decor together. Here are some factors to consider when choosing outdoor cushions and pillows:
Look for items made from weather-resistant fabrics such as polyester or acrylic, which are also resistant to fading and mold.
Choose cushions and pillows with removable covers that can be easily machine-washed or spot-cleaned to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.
Select cushions with ample padding and support to keep your guests comfortable as they relax and unwind by the pool.
Festive Lights
From string lights and lanterns to tiki torches and LED candles, there's a huge variety of options to choose from to illuminate your outdoor space. You can hang string lights along fences, trees, or pergolas to add a warm and inviting glow to your backyard. Place lanterns and tiki torches around the pool area to provide additional lighting and create a festive atmosphere. For added convenience, you can purchase solar-powered lights that charge during the day and automatically turn on at dusk. This will save energy and eliminate the need to place each light near an electrical outlet.
Hang Out Around the Fire
After a day of splashing around in the pool, gather your guests for some fun and games around the fire. Create the perfect hangout spot with a dining and firepit setup.
Outdoor Dining Sets
Extend the enjoyment of your pool party into the evening with an outdoor dining set where guests can gather for a treat and mingle under the stars. Choose a set appropriate for the size and style of your outdoor space, be it a spacious patio or a small, cozy deck.
Think about how often you host and how many loved ones typically hang out in your space to determine the size of your outdoor dining set:
2-4 guests: A bistro set with a small table and two chairs
4-6 guests: A dining set with a round or square table and four chairs
6-8 Guests: A dining set with a rectangular or oval table and six to eight chairs
8+ guests: A spacious dining set with an extendable table and eight to 10 chairs, or multiple smaller dining sets supplemented with additional seating options
Outdoor Fire Pit Seating Sets
For a comfortable evening atmosphere, you might opt for an outdoor fire pit seating set. These sets typically include comfortable seating arranged around a fire pit that becomes a natural focal point. Look for fire pits that are easy to use and maintain, such as gas- or propane-powered models with adjustable flame settings. Alternate options include wood-burning, electric, smokeless, and tabletop fire pits.
Get Ready To Host
Hosting a pool party is not for the faint of heart, but you can do it! Here are some essential steps for a successful event.
Send Festive Invites
Traditional paper invites, digital e-vites, social media invitations, and customized video messages are just a few fun ways to inform your guests about the party. Include important details like the date, time, location, and any special instructions or themes. Add playful graphics or catchy phrases to enhance the festive vibe and encourage RSVPs.
Prepare Your Menu
No pool party is complete without delicious food and refreshing beverages. Consider easy-to-eat finger foods, refreshing salads, and thirst-quenching beverages like lemonade, iced tea, or fruity cocktails. Ask guests to provide you with any dietary restrictions or allergies beforehand.
Plan Pool Games and Floats
Keep your guests entertained and active with a selection of fun pool games and floats. Classic games like Marco Polo and water volleyball are guaranteed to break the ice, and who doesn’t love inflatable floaties and water slides? You can organize friendly competitions or relay races with goofy prizes to add an extra element of excitement to the party.
Sit Back and Enjoy
With the right setup and planning, you can host a pool party that your guests will remember for years to come. Dive in, make a splash, and enjoy a day of sun, fun, and relaxation with your friends and family at your next pool party!
