Happy 4th of July from the ORO Family!

Summers can be filled with client meetings, site visits, back-to-back weekend weddings, planning fall corporate SKO events, and so much more… but what about your own festivities? It’s just as important to remember that we as planners need to have a bit of fun with our friends and family, and who better to throw an amazing holiday bash!

Here are a few tips from ORO on throwing an unforgettable 4th of July (or any holiday) party:

1. Ensure there are PLENTY of cold beverages for both adults and kids! Put your drinks on ice in visibly marked coolers at least 20 mins prior to serving. It’s much easier for children and adults to have their own respective coolers/serving stations so they know where their beverages can be found. Also, remember water! Guests need a lot of water, especially adults while drinking in the hot sun, so it’s always best to double the amount you may think you need. Same goes for the ice … ice always seems to run out or melt.

2. Supply ample food and a few 4th of July themed items! Everyone loves a good grillin’ sesh with some festive salads and accompaniments, but July is hot and sometimes guests just want a cold treat to cool them down … such as 4th of July Bomb (Rocket) Popsicles. Another fun and healthy way to cool down while staying on theme, is to freeze grapes rolled in sugar and place them on skewers with blueberries, bananas, and strawberries.

3. Remember to decorate. A few simple decorations can make your home, apartment, lake house, or boat pop! A few streamers, balloon arrangements, and lanterns can make a world of difference during the day. Once dusk hits, you may want to light some candles, turn on the overhead bistro lighting, and change up your music to make the environment feel new. Lastly, splurge on a few items the guests can enjoy, such as party hats, glow necklaces and sparklers. They make for great photo opportunities and provide a fun dynamic (especially for the kiddos!)

4. If you are celebrating with fireworks, make sure everyone is always at a safe distance; consider having a fire extinguisher or hose nearby if needed. Be sure to also consider the needs of pets as well.

5. Bug spray and sunscreen are so easy to forget, but it’s important to put them at the top of your shopping list! Guests may need to reapply depending on the length of the event. Also, if you have a pool or planned any sort of water-related activity have additional towels handy for any guest that may have forgotten theirs.

6. HAVE FUN! It's easy to become stressed and overwhelmed with planning, but the Holiday is about having fun with your family and friends. If things take an unexpected turn and the popsicles melt in the cooler, don't stress and just roll with it! If you’re having fun, your guests will too!