Thursday, July 14, 2011

Summer Party Theme: Trader Vic's

The panther loves a good party and summer is the perfect time of year for throwing fabulous outdoor events.  There is nothing bad about an old-fashioned backyard barbecue, but the panther likes to go beyond that...
Everyone loves a theme party.  In the upcoming days the panther will share some of her favorite summer party themes.  She has a summer party planned soon and will share photos and ideas from that party soon...
For now, read about some other great party themes.

The new Trader Vic's is opening in Portland in about two weeks and the panther cannot wait.  That is the inspiration for our first party theme.

Trader Vic's:  Luau's and tiki parties are always popular in summer months.  The panther likes to model her luaus after the always-fun vibe of Trader Vic's.  Tasty tropical food and amazing fruity drinks are a must!

A Trader Vic's party cannot be complete without an actual tiki bar.  This isn't as hard a task as you may think.  Tiki bars are pretty easy to find during summer months at large retailers like Target, Home Depot, Lowes, or even discount stores like Big Lots.  They are not a huge investment and most models are collapsible for easy storage.  Not ready to commit to a tiki bar?  Many party rental places have them available to rent.  Tiki bars set the mood and your guests will love gathering around it with their pina coladas in hand for photos.

If you cannot find a tiki bar, purchase raffia skirts and your local party supply store and skirt a long table to use as your bar.  It is fun to buy several raffia skirts to decorate all your tables and even tie them to deck railings to give your home that tiki-hut look.
Tiki torches are another necessity.  They create a lovely ambiance once the sun sets.  You can fill them with regular tiki torch fuel or citronella oil if insects are an issue.  Tiki torches are abundant and easy to find at any major retailer in summer months.  Stake them around the perimeter of your yard and flank walkways and buffet tables.


Leis of artificial flowers can be found at most party stores and are fun to place on tables for decoration.  Pick up enough for all of your guests to wear one.


You cannot have a successful Trader Vic's party without fabulous tropical cocktails.  Hire a good bartender or perfect a few key cocktails yourself.  Be sure to have a lot of paper umbrella's and garnishes for the drinks because that's half the fun!

A whole roasted pig makes a fabulous feast at a Trader Vic's party but the panther understands that isn't for everyone.  Barbecued pork spare ribs, skewers of teriyaki chicken with grilled pineapple, luscious fruit salads, and coconut rice are all perfect foods to serve at a Trader Vic's party.  Search for a vintage Trader Vic's cookbook for more inspiration.


Other ideas:  Tuck artificial bird-or-paradise and orchid stems in among your garden plants.  Use palm fronds or banana leaves as placemats on tables.  Have a hula-hooping contest with fun prizes for your guests.

Aloha!
-The Panther

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