How to Plan a Pool Party

Pool parties usually start happening as spring melts away the last of the winter chills. By the time summer is in full swing, pool parties are the social events of the week. Host one of your own with very little expense on your part. You already have the pool, and the pool itself is the central source of entertainment. All you need is a few supplies and a bit of creativity!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide on a theme for your pool party. Yes, a "pool party" is a theme in and of itself. However, it's been done a million times. Add extra spark to your party by infusing it with something else. A "Jaws" theme party can end with cooling down watching the thriller. Shark toys and floating devices are a must for that particular theme. A "Gidget," "Beach Party" or "High School Musical Pool Meet" could all work.

2. Arrange for other activities besides swimming. Think of pool games to play. Provide several beach balls for impromptu ball games in and near the water. Set up a table with a water-resistant board game. Set up lots of chairs for lounging and just hanging out. You want to keep all your guests entertained at once.

3. Set up a water slide if you have the room in your yard. This is added fun for a pool party. An 18-year-old can suddenly feel 8 again when sliding on one.

4. Purchase blue or beige paper plates, plastic utensils and napkins. This will keep the beach motif going. if you'd opted for another theme, switch out the color scheme to best represent your pool party theme.

5. Make sure that the pool will be free at your designated time. Let all members of your family know about your party well in advance if you're having it at your private residence. If you live in an apartment complex, try to clear out the time free. Ask permission from the landlord. Ask for cooperation from other tenants by posting polite signs and asking your neighbors for help. Feel free to promise favors in return, like freeing up the pool to suit the needs of others as well.

6. Create a guest list. Give everybody at least 2 weeks' notice about your party. A month's notice is ideal in order to be ultra considerate for busy schedules. Send out another reminder 3 or 4 days before the party. Keep people in the know in order to maximize the number of people at your party. A truly happening party is a crowded one.

7. Let your guests know what to bring. Guests rarely come to a party empty-handed. If you don't let them know what to bring, your guests may bring random things that don't go with your party theme. Keep your requests simple and tailored to what's logical for each particular guest. Always prepare for that guest not to come, making sure you have enough to take care of your party needs without any request that's made. You never know what can happen at the last minute to prevent a guest from showing. Don't risk running out of soda if a guest doesn't show up. Be over-prepared in order to be a great host.

Tips & Warnings

• Create cute party favors for your friends to take home.
• Don't plan a pool party without checking the weather forecast for the day. You don't want all your hard work and preparation to be in vain!