It’s been a fantastic summer events season. Producing some knockout outdoor summer affairs and attending memorable gatherings in exciting destinations have given us a renewed love for this time of year. While the season may soon be coming to a close, we’re breaking down the best ways to squeeze in a few more moments of fun in the sun with these end-of-summer party ideas.
1. Throw a Themed Party
Everything feels more fun in summer, right? A theme will properly fête the end of summer and usher it out on a high note! When you pair everyone’s favorite season of leisure with a timely dress-up element, you will undoubtedly get your guests feeling festive and ready to party surrounded by their favorite people before cooler weather hits. Consider these approachable themes that are all fun and no fuss:
Country club-themed party: think tennis attire, playful menus, Pimm’s cups, and strawberries and cream (Bonus points for pairing this with a US Open watch party!)
Fiesta party: salvage the last bits of warmth with brightly colored attire, delicious spicy margaritas, and freshly made salsa dips
Garden party: bring the party to you with an intimate outdoor gathering with your nearest and dearest
2. A Summer Brunch
Kicking things off in the midday sun is one of the best ways to cling to the last few summery moments. An al fresco brunch spent with your closest friends and family, raising your glasses to savoring leisurely meals (Think Italy on holiday vibes), is the perfect way to celebrate the end of summer. Consider a menu showcasing the vibrant fruits and vegetables we crave when summer arrives. You can even incorporate hand-illustrated designs onto the event menu or invitations for a whimsical play on seasonal ingredients. Welcome your guests with an enticing chilled beverage — it’s peak spritz and frosé season, after all!
Photo by Papellerie
3. Not Your Average Barbeque
Barbeque, but make it luxury.
Barbeques are a staple summer hosting event, but let’s elevate it to give guests a taste of the unexpected. Ditch the usual sticky BBQ chicken and consider hiring a hibachi and chef for an interactive, high-energy experience that guests will remember. Create a gorgeous tablescape that mimics the feel of a communal feast with abundant family-style accouterments and luxurious toppings peppered down the table- enjoying the inviting and convivial spirit of a BBQ is always a treat!
4. Host an Outdoor Cocktail Party
You can’t go wrong with a cocktail party. An outdoor bar set in your garden is not only practical but also brings a sophisticated aesthetic to an outside event. Make the dress code smart-casual with an emphasis on sundresses and coastal grandma chic attire to give summer a stunning send-off. You could even consider specifying a color palette in your invitations to achieve an Instagram-worthy moment. Keep things crisp and simple: classic summer staples go a long way. We suggest topping off your bar with a large-scale arrangement of seasonal blooms and freshly-sourced garnishes that are synonymous with memories of fun in the sun.
We’ve been savoring the last bits of summer as much as we can by traveling, hosting gatherings, and gearing up for a new season. The transition from summer to fall brings new possibilities and is collectively one of our favorite times of the year! Cassie LaMere Events is an expert in producing both indoor and outdoor events of any size with a keen eye for detail and a passion for bringing event visions to life. Get in touch if you’re looking to throw a dreamy end-of-summer party and don’t forget, it’s never too early to start planning for fall and holiday celebrations!