Prepare yourself! How to get ready for the summer party circuit

June 17, 10:45 PMBoston Party Planning ExaminerDanielle E. Brown

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A cookout.  One of the easiest parties for summer.
Courtesy of Flickr user vortex_bits.

Summer is the perfect excuse to have a party, but if you need more of a reason than that, take note: there are a handful of holidays peppered throughout the summer season, as well as half a dozen "typical" summer party themes.  If you need an excuse to host a party, try choosing one of these:

• Memorial Day (May 25 — the unofficial start of summer)
• Flag Day (June 14)
• Bunker Hill Day (June 17 — in Boston)
• Summer Solstice (June 21 — the official start of summer)
• Independence Day (July 4)
• Labor Day (September 7 — summer's last hurrah)
• Graduation
• Wedding
• Luau
• Garden party
• Barbecue
• Pool party

You should also be ready to attend or throw an impromptu party this summer.  Here's what to have on hand:

Your "Emergency Party" kit should include:

• A signature drink or cocktail that you can make with little or no notice.  Go for something summery like sangria, margaritas, or daiquiris.
   
• Munchies.  Keep a variety of chips and crackers on hand and supplement with homemade or store-bought cheeses, dips, and spreads the day of the party.  Add some veggies and pepperoni and you've got yourself a party tray.
   
• Dishes/utensils.  Having a stash of reusable plastic utensils and dishes makes outdoor entertaining easy; just grab the container and go.  Alternatively, keep a supply of paper goods in stock and refill your selection when you see the items on sale at a local grocery or discount store.
   
• Music.  Try something upbeat for summer like a collection of salsa music.  Alternatively, create playlists on your iPod that would work for different types of parties and play the music through an iPod dock or speaker system.

Your "I've-Just-Been-Invited-To-A-Party" kit should include:

• A bottle of your favorite wine to share with your hosts.
   
• A bag of gourmet chips or snacks, or a quick and easy recipe for dip or dessert will make you the hit of the party.
   
• A stash of cards that you can look through if you don't have time to hit the store on your way to the party.  I like to keep a variety of birthday, wedding, graduation, housewarming, and blank cards on hand so that I always have one when I need it. 
   
• Portable lawn chairs, a blanket, bug spray, sun block, and the like.  No one wants to be unprepared!  Help your host out by making sure that you're protected from the elements!

With these few things, you're ready for anything summer throws your way.  Keep a cool head and enjoy all that summer has to offer!