Community Magazine June 2014

66 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE One of the many joys of summer is the coming together of family and friends in the great outdoors. Whether your summer vacation plans are set for Deal, Lakewood, the country or in good ‘ole Brooklyn, rest assured that with these helpful tips your summer rendezvous will be fun, safe and comfortable for your guests. Because let‛s face it – even the most exciting, elegant or well-prepared summer party can be hampered by a sunburn or mosquito bite. With these pointers and a little preparation, you‛ll be on your way to a fantastic outdoor summer party! A.D. COHEN Seven Tips to Outdoor Party Success! Bursts of Color Keep it Simple Decorate your outdoor bash with beautiful bursts of color and all the radiance that summer has to offer. Opt for brightly-colored tablecloths, colorful vases with fresh flowers, multi-colored lamps, vibrant streamers and vivid centerpieces. Remember, you don’t have to spend loads of money to make your tables stand out. Tulips from your backyard in the mismatched vases you’ve been holding onto make remarkably simple yet absolutely gorgeous centerpieces. There is no reason to go overboard to create a welcoming, relaxed vibe at your party (shaatras included!). By keeping things simple, everyone will have more fun. Prepare a menu with all the basics and then some: delicious bite-size appetizers, tasty sandwiches, fresh summer salads and melt-in-your-mouth desserts that will satisfy adults and kids alike. Looking to dress up the fare a bit? Try wrapping sandwiches in dazzling pieces of scrapbooking paper and tie with a ribbon. Arrange your mazza on tiered display stands. Place your desserts – muffins, cookies, donuts – in wicker baskets on a colorful bed of tissue paper. And serve individual tossed salads in Mason jars tied with a pretty bow.