As some of us are still not traveling afar, we try to make our local trips as special as possible. For instance, a routine trip to the beach could become extraordinary! Stacey turned an evening beach gathering into a beautiful, fun beach party. Good planning is essential for this kind of event, as you will be away from home and need to haul everything with you. Stacey shares a list of items to bring and menu items to serve (see below). A beach party is a great way to celebrate the 4th of July holiday!

Items to bring:

Beach tables – (Crate and Barrel sells great ones for $59 that fold up)

Blanket

Pillows

Battery candles

Mason jars (fill with sand and votive)

Trash bags

Matches and/or lighter

Plastic wine and regular glasses

Plates and silverware

Cooler – food and beverage

Speakers

Fairy lights

Lanterns

Menu ideas:

Skewers

- Cherry tomato, basil, mozzarella balls

- Antipasto cold cuts, provolone cheese, basil, mini tomatoes

- Veggie – cucumber, black olives, mini tomatoes, basil

Grilled Shrimp, black bean, grilled corn salad with lime, garlic and evoo

Watermelon salad with feta and mint

Dates stuffed with almonds wrapped in bacon (cook ahead of time)

Cheese, crackers, nuts

Hummus and pita chips

Tenderloin crostini with horseradish sauce and basil

Shrimp cocktail

Lobster salad

Corn on the cob, coleslaw

Desserts

Brownies

Seven Layer Bars

Drinks

Wine

Beer

Soda

Seltzers

Water