Here in H-Town, we’re all familiar with the old joke about Houston only having two seasons, the “hot season” and “less hot” season. All kidding aside, spring has officially sprung and it’s time to savor the daffodils, take delight in the returning bluebonnets and enjoy cool breezes (while they’re still cool, that is). It’s no secret we Houstonians don’t always need a reason to throw a party, but we have some delightfully tantalizing tips to inspire you to host a heck of a hoedown to celebrate the return of spring.
Suggestions for a Superior Springtime Shindig
Make a Plan: Parties are all about having fun, but pulling off a bodacious bash is serious business and planning is key to any party’s success. Getting prepared might seem pretty obvious, but ask any business coach, executive, or hospitality professional and they will all tell you preparing for success is the best way to avoid disasters. Planning for a spectacular soiree will save you loads of time and stress. Consider making a checklist so you can keep track of everything you and your guests need for a hassle-free, enjoyable experience.
Keep it Simple: One of the most crucial but often overlooked tips for a successful party is keeping things simple and easy-breezy. While you are planning your superior springtime party, be sure to make your preparations as uncomplicated as possible. We know everything is bigger and better in Texas, but that doesn’t equate to going overboard. Dealing with too many details and complications can get overwhelming and suck all the fun out of your celebration. You can easily create a fabulous fiesta that is super-simple and sensationally stylish.
Make it Fresh: Springtime carries light, fresh energy. With this in mind, keep your color scheme and tablescapes light with springy pastels and soft, creamy hues. If you are serving food, think about using fresh spring veggies and keep the food bright. For example, consider serving delicate finger foods that are light on the taste buds as well as the tummy. Of course, no spring-themed party is complete without fresh flowers. Choose spring blooms like tulips or daffodils. Include fresh sprigs of greenery to complete that happy spring theme. Keep in mind, springtime is about reenergizing, refreshing, and renewing. The overarching feel of your springtime cocktail party should inspire invigoration and celebration.
Lively Libations for Spring – Spiked or Unspiked!
Springtime cocktails are perfect for starting a rockin’ vernal vibe. Whether you whistle for whiskey or get twitter-pated for tequila, springtime sippers are sure to get you and your guests toasting the season. The rules for pulling off a perfect party apply to preparing perfect springtime cocktails too…keep it fresh, simple, and easy. Some of the best festive beverages are the simplest, but that doesn’t mean they lack spunk! Nailing the basics for a few easy cocktail recipes and adding embellishments is a great way to knock the socks off your party guests.
For example, add fresh strawberries to your libations. Strawberries are coming into their prime during this time and they make a sublime spring drink. Consider making a big batch of lemonade and adding it to a blender of fresh strawberries. Puree to the consistency you like and pour into glasses with ice. Add vodka or rum for a scintillating spiked version of this jazzy drink. Either way, this is a refreshing beverage that will have your spring party guests tickled pink.
Another prime produce item this time of year is cucumbers. You can make a super-simple cucumber agua fresca by buzzing just a few ingredients in a blender. Combine about a pound of fresh cucumbers (ends trimmed, peel on, and coarsely chopped) with 1/2 cup lime juice, 1/2 cup sugar, and about 1, 1/4 cup of fresh mint (stems removed) into a blender with 1, 1/4 cups of water. Blend it all together well and pour into glasses through a strainer. This is an invigorating spring drink on its own, but when you spike it with vodka or gin this cucumber agua fresca becomes a vitalizing vernal sensation!
We know these party hosting tips and keen cocktail ideas will make you the superstar of your neighborhood. Your guests will rave about your party prowess and you are certain to be the talk of the block! Who knows, once you enjoy a successful springtime smash, you might find yourself becoming the best springtime fiesta planner in Houston! Hey, it could happen! However you celebrate, stay safe, have fun and we hope you enjoy making fond memories with friends and family this spring!
