5 Steps to a Fab Last Minute Pool Party

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Dr Pepper®. The opinions and text are all mine.

Summer is officially here, which means BBQs and white jeans aren’t the only things that are trending. Pool parties are the definite hit of the season. Usually when I plan a party, I REALLY plan a party. I commit all the way. I’m talking about custom napkins, labels and on themed party favors. But sometimes, parties just happen and there’s just no time for extravagance. And what’s most important is having a no stress event where you can connect and enjoy the company of great friends.

Even last minute though, I’ve learned you can be the hostess with the mostess. So go ahead and treat your guests to a poolside party after a long week and unwind, because these are the 5 easy essentials that will help make any party fabulous!

Set the scene

Let the colors of summer dictate your color palette. Cool turquoise and bright whites and reds can’t be beat. Place some fresh and easy to find items, like limes, in the middle of the table as a centerpiece. Add fresh flowers around if you have them. Make them subtle, like white roses, so they add a touch of elegance but not overly feminize the event.

Light bites

For an impromptu get together, there is just not time to get fancy with foods. So usually anything you have in your pantry will do. Chips, dip, crackers and a colorful array of fruits are easy and fuss-free. If you don’t have time for a quick grocery run, ask a guest to pick up dessert. It always helps to have something sweet. Dessert can blend summer fruits, popsicles and mini treats.

Music

I am the first to admit my taste in music is questionable to most people, but I always want to create an atmosphere that is lively, fun and relaxing. Since variety is the spice of life, opt for a little pop, a little hip-hop and a little John Legend.

Toys for a photo opp

Throw fun swim floats in the pool to create a festive atmosphere. They also make good Instagram shots, which is always a crowd pleaser. Remember how much we loved pool floaties as kids. Well, it’s really one of the few things we never grow out of. Guests were fighting over this Dr Pepper bottle shaped pool float and inflatable unicorn beverage holder.

Signature Drinks

The drink menu is the area I never skimp on. However, to save time, I usually stick with one beverage of focus. A hero beverage if you will. And lucky for me, I stocked up on Dr Pepper during my last trip to #Walmart so I already had the perfect way to treat my guests. I will also provide a couple options in case we have some pickier attendees. A diet version of Dr Pepper, specialty juices and sparkling water are perfect complements.

Dr Pepper’s unique #PickYourPepper bottles will be available in stores starting 6/15/17, and to celebrate, when you buy any Dr Pepper 6/15-8/15 this summer at Walmart, you could win so many amazing prizes like the ones featured here for your next pool party! Simply upload your receipt at http://bit.ly/2pts8Qo and win amazing stuff like:

- - Spend $5, get a unicorn beverage holder inflatable
  - Spend $10, get a Walmart e-Gift Card worth $5
  - Spend $20, get a Dr Pepper 6 pack can/bottle holder with ice pack
  - Spend $40, get a Dr Pepper bottle shaped pool float