A Few Fourth of July Party Planning Tips

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

30 Jun 2007 06:18 AM

Holiday parties and picnics can be a lot of fun. They are even more relaxing when you're organized and have a plan. There are a few little things you can do to help make things go smoothly.

Start by preparing your yard if you intend to entertain outdoors. Cut the grass and if you intend to use a product to prevent pests, use it in advance. Then, begin setting up tables and chairs. You'll be able to see if insects are drawn to the seating area. If so, and if you don't really have another good spot, you might want to consider purchasing a screen tent, at least for the eating area.

If there are going to be quite a few children in attendance, it might become difficult to keep track of drinks. There are some good tips to make this task easier. Try writing each child's name on his or her party cup with a permanent marker. If you aren't sure how many children will be coming, number some cups, and when you pass them out ask children to remember their numbers (or write them down). If you're serving juice boxes or bottled drinks, you can also label those with marker. If you're serving canned drinks, try a little trick that uses craft foam. Cut a strip of craft foam to wrap around each can and tape it in place. Write names on the foam strips or give each child a different color.

Be sure to pick up the appropriate types of tableware. Having food soak through a plate or fall from the plate because it isn't sturdy enough is embarrassing. Provide different types of plates for different types of food. This way, you don't have to purchase expensive plates for everything. For example, you could provide regular paper plates (or smaller ones) for cake and provide heavy duty plates for main courses.

Have a great weekend and a great holiday!

Set a Festive Table for Fourth of July

Canopies, Screen Houses, and Solar Lights

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger