Partying Sandwich Style

Summertime is a natural season for parties and celebrations. For a long time I did not even consider entertaining because, it was just too much effort in addition to all of my Sandwich tasks. Do. not. do. this. You can still enjoy a fun 4^th of July celebration by simplifying your entertaining processes. Consider these tips:

• Mister, mister. Purchase some mini water misters to pass out to your guests at the party.  
• Share the wealth. Organize a potluck party or a progressive event where each part of the meal occurs at different homes. One family hosts a salad spread, the next prepares the main course and the dessert at the last home.
• Movie time. Set up a cinema area while waiting for the fireworks to begin.  Feature summer flicks like Finding Nemo, The Parent Trap or Beach Blanket Bingo.
• Flag day. Before July 4^th, brush up on your flag etiquette. Check out www.usflag.org/flagetiquette.html.
• Lost and found. Create a “lost and found” box for items your guests may leave behind after a party.  If someone calls in search of their sunglasses, you will know right where to look for them.
• Keep the kids busy. Set up a card table and provide puzzles, games or July 4^th crafts to keep them entertained.
• Say, “cheese”. To take great photos, move people away from walls to avoid harsh shadows. Get down on the kid’s level and focus on the faces to cut out busy backgrounds.
• Minimize. Instead of a huge summer bash, why not have a mini party such as an appetizer or dessert event.
• Candle cakes. Use foil lined cupcake liners for votive candles to make wax clean up easy.
• Cool and minty. Freeze a mint leaf in ice cubes to add a zing to your beverages.
• Smoke free. When barbequing, make sure the grill is downwind from your guests.
• Gone with the wind. Purchase tablecloth clips and use them when the breeze begins to blow. 
• Is this your drink? When entertaining with paper or plastic cups, provide a marker for your guests to write their names on the cups. Stickers are a great option as well.
• Get ‘um involved. Ask your parent(s) to create a 4^th of July history quiz. Invite your guests to participate for a winning prize.
• Kiddos too. Have kids count wrapped candy pieces and put it in a jar. Your guests can guess how many items are in the jar.
• Join forces. Have your elderly parents and kids work together to set out flags, wrap prizes or decorate for the party.

Okay, I have given you ideas to jumpstart your par-tay so I hope you enjoy the time with your family!

xoxo Paula 

What ideas can you add to make your celebrations simple?