We brought together insight from both event industry experts and expert party-goers to bring you our top summer party trends right now. Share your faves with us in the comments section below!

Garland Detailing 

Simultaneously playful and utterly chic, if we saw garland chandeliers at every party, we wouldn’t complain. 

garland detailing

Jimmy Gideon Photography

Dessert Bars with a Twist – Courtney Lutkus of Simply Radiant Events

From gelato bars to s’mores bars, we are loving seeing the new, playful twists on dessert. After all, it is the most important meal of the day. (Wait, did we mix that up?)

popsicles

Jimmy Gideon Photography

Breezy Florals + Neutrals

Warm air + summer nights call for light-colored linens + minimalist florals. Keep it airy to create an aura of relaxation, beauty, and magic for any summer celebration. 

breezy pastels and neutrals2

Kelly Stonelake Photography

Think Outside the Cocktail – Katie Brauer of West Shore Cafe & Homewood Mountain Resort

From infused fruit waters & homemade iced teas to innovative shrubs, the art of the non-cocktail is one we are ready to embrace with open arms. Perfect for kids, or just as an alternative to cocktails to keep the crowd hydrated + happy!

lemoande stations2

Kelly Stonelake Photography

Distinctive Signature Cocktails – Danielle Rothweiler of Rothweiler Events

Nothing against our classics (we love you always, margarita) but it is so fun to see unique, personal favorites and custom cocktails being used as signature cocktails. A super fun way to show off that personality!

signature drinks

Jimmy Gideon Photography

Hand-painted Watercolor Cakes – Kia Martinson of ESTOccasions

For weddings, showers, and social celebrations alike, watercolor cakes are a delightful (+ delicious) addition. For the DIYer in you, view the full tutorial via Sprinkle Bakes here.

watercolor cake blog post image

Sprinkle Bakes

Pop of Gold – Makini Brereton of Makini Regal Designs

This summer, skip the “gold everything” and opt for a more elegant “gold couple of things”. Makini recommends that a simple way to incorporate just a hint of gold would be in the tableware, whether that be a simple gold trimming on the plates or gold cutlery.

pop of gold summer party

Mikkel Paige Photography

Up Your Picnic Game – Anastasia of Coastal Creative Events

With a hint of chic coastal style, Anastasia recommends hosting a boho summer picnic with lush florals and rich fruits like figs, plums , pomegranate and dark berries. We personally love the picnic baskets complete with lovely vintage quilts. 

coastal creative events picnic

Coastal Creative Events

Small Plates + Family Style Dining – Nick Brune of Eco Caters

Not only do you get to taste a little bit of everything (yay!), shared plates and family style dining get everyone involved in the meal, sharing, talking, and enjoying the same food and experience together.

eco caters summer blog

What are you waiting for? Get started planning your next summer party by browsing our collection of customizable designer invitations here.