It's the end of summer; kids are back in school, you survived, and football season is just around the corner. It's the perfect time to throw an end of summer shindig! Before you start panicking, remember that planning is the key to a fun, no-stress party with your dearest friends.  Make a list, make some calls, and prepare to have fun. 

Timing

In just a few short weeks, your time on the clock as shuttle service for family members will be in full swing. Take advantage of free evenings before after school activities commence or your workload becomes too hectic.  Look to evenings after work or even on the weekend as the perfect time for a casual late-summer get together.  If you plan on serving dinner, expect guests anywhere from 5 to 6:30 pm.  Anytime after 7 usually works if dinner is not included.  Keep the party lively with food and music and plan on wrapping-up anywhere from 10 pm to midnight.  That way, you can be done with clean-up and still be in your pj's by a reasonable time of night.    

Theme

Select a theme for your party and work it. Go all out with music, party favors, and food and drink.  Imagine a Louisiana-themed night complete with Zydeco music and boiled crawfish.  An 80's-style retro evening where guests dress-up and listen to classic rock music from the early 1980's is always fun. How about a jazz night with nice wine served under the stars?  A good rule of thumb is to begin with a music genre to set a tone.  What to serve and how to decorate will fall in line with the decade, the region, or the style the music portrays.  

Drinks

Whether your party is adults only or family friendly, put out plenty of cool drinks to keep your guests hydrated.  Peach, apricot or watermelon punch, spiked or not, is always a refreshing winner.  Light white wine or cold beer are both perfect depending on tastes.  Fruity margaritas are as delicious as virgins as they are in their boozy states. Also, there's absolutely nothing wrong with circulating pitchers of iced water, especially if the temperature is high.

Menu

You don't want to put out so much food that guests feel tempted to stuff themselves, but you can't let them starve, either.  You definitely want folks to enjoy the music and maybe even dance.  Set out a menu of things that are easy to eat and not too messy.  Cheeses, deviled eggs, fruit, and veggies with dip always work, but consider something a little different like pre-made sushi or sandwich wraps.  These can be picked up earlier in the day to save on precious moments before the party starts.  

Music

It's not a real party and your talent as a host(ess) may be in question if there is no music. Cut back on the alcohol or ask friends to bring potluck, but by no means should you suddenly become thrifty where sound is concerned.  You want the evening to be memorable, you crave the title "host(ess) with the most(est)," and you really just want people to enjoy themselves.  Ok, we get it.  Get help with the music.  Contact us at Music Garden for all your musical needs.  We book bands and DJs for music of all kinds for everything from weddings and corporate events to private parties and collegiate celebrations.  Our selection of bookable acts is sure to help you have the end of summer party you want to have.