💖 12 The Summer I Turned Pretty Party
Alright, bestie, listen up. You binged it, you cried, you probably picked a team (or, let’s be real, switched teams a few times). Now it’s time to bring all that glorious Cousins Beach drama, sunshine, and epic romance to life. Forget sad girl autumn; we’re clinging to summer vibes like Belly clinging to her childhood crush. Hosting a The Summer I Turned Pretty party is basically a mandatory right of passage, so let’s get you prepped to throw the most swoon-worthy bash of the season.
1. The Cousins Beach Cocktail Bar
Get ready to shake things up, literally. No T-Swift party is complete without some killer sips, and a dedicated drink station is a must. Set up a bar cart or a cute table with all the fixings for themed drinks. Think a “Conrad’s Cool Blue” lemonade, a sparkling “Jeremiah’s Golden Hour” spritz, and a berry-infused “Belly’s Blush” mocktail. Don’t forget the cute straws and ice buckets.
Pro tip: Label your drinks with cheeky names to really lean into the drama. Bonus points for custom coasters that say “Team Conrad” or “Team Jeremiah”.
Everyone loves a good drink, and these Instagrammable concoctions will keep the good vibes flowing all night.
2. Belly’s Birthday Brunch Bites
Remember Belly’s epic birthday? We’re taking that energy and turning it into a snack spread. Think light, summery finger foods that scream “beach house chic.” Mini pancakes with fresh berries, tiny quiches, fruit skewers, and elegant cucumber sandwiches fit the bill perfectly.
Pro tip: Use pastel serving dishes and a few strategically placed seashells to really nail the aesthetic. A tiered stand makes everything look instantly fancier.
These bites are easy to graze on, leaving more time for dancing and debating who Belly should end up with.
3. Team Conrad vs. Team Jeremiah Decor Zones
This is where the real fun begins. Designate two distinct areas for your guests to show their allegiance. One side gets cool blues and whites for Team Conrad, maybe a bit moody but undeniably charming. The other side bursts with sunny yellows, oranges, and greens for Team Jeremiah, all golden hour energy and playful vibes.
Pro tip: Use throw pillows, blankets, and even string lights in corresponding colors. A subtle banner or balloon arch for each team makes it obvious.
It’s a fantastic icebreaker and ensures everyone picks a side, even if it’s just for the night.
4. Infinity Pool Photo Booth
You absolutely need a dedicated spot for those picture-perfect moments. Create a backdrop that mimics the stunning Cousins Beach infinity pool. Think a large blue sheet or fabric, maybe some inflatable pool floats or beach balls, and definitely some string lights to mimic that magical evening glow.
Pro tip: Provide props like oversized sunglasses, floppy hats, a replica “Infinity” necklace, and maybe even a volleyball. A ring light is a non-negotiable for flawless selfies.
No party is complete without a million photos, and this setup ensures they’re all blog-worthy.
5. Beach Blanket Bingo Bonfire
Channel those cozy, late-night beach bonfires. If you have a fire pit, perfect. If not, string up some fairy lights and lay out a bunch of mismatched blankets and pillows on the grass. Play some acoustic guitar music (or a good playlist) and get ready for some serious s’mores action.
Pro tip: Prepare s’mores kits beforehand with graham crackers, marshmallows, and various chocolate bars. Offer different toppings like peanut butter cups or caramel squares.
It’s the ultimate chill zone for heart-to-hearts and dramatic confessions, just like in the show.
6. Taylor Swift Soundtrack Extravaganza
Let’s be real, Taylor Swift is basically the unofficial third main character of this series. Curate an epic playlist featuring all the iconic T-Swift songs from the show, plus any other tracks that scream summer romance and angst. Think “Cruel Summer,” “August,” “Lover,” and “Invisible String.”
Pro tip: Encourage guests to make song requests ahead of time to build anticipation. Bonus points for a karaoke session of “The Way I Loved You.”
The right soundtrack sets the mood, and T-Swift knows exactly how to hit all the feels.
7. DIY Friendship Bracelet Station
Remember when Belly and Taylor were making those bracelets? Bring that sweet, nostalgic vibe to your party. Set up a table with an array of colorful beads, letter beads, and elastic string. Guests can create their own personalized bracelets, perhaps with their team preference or favorite character names.
Pro tip: Have some pre-made examples for inspiration. Offer small baggies for guests to take their creations home.
It’s a fun, interactive activity and a perfect party favor that doubles as a memory keeper.
8. The “Deb Ball” Dress Code
Give your guests a reason to get fancy! Encourage a “Deb Ball” inspired dress code. Think elegant pastels, crisp whites, flowy sundresses, and maybe even a few suits for the guys. It’s a chance to glam up and feel like you’re attending a truly special event.
Pro tip: Mention the dress code on your invitation. Have a designated mirror spot for quick outfit checks and touch-ups.
Everyone loves to dress up, and this theme elevates the entire party experience from casual hangout to chic soirée.
9. Volleyball Tournament Throwdown
If you have the space (a backyard, a park nearby), set up a friendly volleyball net. The show makes beach volleyball look incredibly fun and dramatic, so why not recreate it? Divide guests into teams (maybe “Team Fisher” vs. “Team Conklin” for extra flair) and let the games begin.
Pro tip: Have small prizes for the winning team, like themed candy bags or bragging rights. Make sure to have plenty of water on hand for hydration.
It’s a fantastic way to get everyone moving and inject some playful competition into the party.
10. Coastal Culinary Delights
Embrace the Cousins Beach setting with some delicious, easy-to-eat coastal snacks. Think mini lobster rolls (or faux lobster rolls using shrimp or surimi), clam chowder shooters in small cups, or even just some fancy fish and chips served in cones. Keep it light and seafood-inspired.
Pro tip: For a budget-friendly option, focus on shrimp cocktail, crab dip, and plenty of fresh fruit with a light dip. Presentation is key, so use nice bowls and garnishes.
Food is a huge part of any gathering, and these themed treats will transport everyone straight to the coast.
11. “First Love” Dessert Table
Every romance needs a sweet ending, or at least a sweet interlude. Set up a dessert table dedicated to all things love and summer. Think heart-shaped cookies, cupcakes with pastel frosting, berry tarts, and maybe even a mini cake that says “Infinity” on it. Pink and white sweets are a must.
Pro tip: Use a cute tablecloth and some fairy lights to make the dessert table a focal point. Offer small take-home boxes for guests to grab a treat for later.
Desserts are always a hit, and these themed treats will satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.
12. Themed Movie Montage Projection
As the night winds down, project iconic scenes from The Summer I Turned Pretty onto a blank wall or a sheet. You can create a compilation of all the best Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah moments, set to the perfect soundtrack. It’s a nostalgic and visually stunning way to cap off the evening.
Pro tip: Use a projector and a laptop for an easy setup. Have comfortable seating like beanbags or floor cushions for maximum cozy vibes.
It’s a beautiful way to relive the magic of the show and provide a relaxed, memorable end to the party.
Conclusion
So there you have it, your ultimate guide to throwing a The Summer I Turned Pretty party that even Susannah would approve of. Remember, it’s all about embracing the summer vibe, the friendships, and maybe a little bit of that dramatic love triangle energy. Go forth, create those unforgettable memories, and make this summer truly pretty. You got this, chief!
