Decorating is part of the fun when having a luau.
A luau is a traditional outdoor Hawaiian feast that began in 1819 by King Kamehameha II. Since that time, the luau has become a popular form of Hawaiian celebration, and it is something that even a non-Hawaiians can enjoy in their own backyards. If you are planning a party, a luau is a fun, unique way to gather with friends and family. Preparing for the luau is half the fun of throwing one, especially if you know the right way to turn your backyard into a Hawaiian paradise. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Buy outdoor torches for your yard. Depending on the quality and whether you want them for long or short term, bamboo tiki torches can be purchased at party supply stores, department or home improvement stores. Place your torches around your yard for an authentic luau atmosphere either day or night. In the evening, light the tikis for dramatic effect.
2. Put out fake palm trees. Hawaii has palm trees in abundance, so you'll want to give your yard and house a tropical feel by setting up palm trees in various locations. Purchase plastic, hanging or cut-out palm trees.
3. Decorate with tropical flowers. Buy real or artificial flowers in bright colors such as pink, orange, red and yellow. Place them on tables and in various locations indoors and out, such as the bathroom and walkways. Have a basket of flowers for your female guests' hair and another basket of leis to pass out to all of your guests.
4. Arrange your tables. Use long banquet tables covered in Hawaiian tablecloths or brightly colored cloth. Buy raffia or grass table skirts and place them around the edges of the tables. Create centerpieces using fresh pineapples and coconuts. Place plumeria blooms, leaves and candles down the center of the table for a decorative runner.
5. Give your outdoor furniture a Hawaiian feel. Cover outdoor umbrellas with thatch covers. Sprinkle sand on your patio to give the feel of walking on the beach. Set out bamboo or rattan furniture if you own it or borrow from someone who does. Place Hawaiian print cushions or seat coverings on chairs and chaise lounges.
6. Add fun, quirky accessories. Set out surf boards and plastic or cardboard hula dancers. Drape a rope fishnet over bushes and hang a large plastic parrot from an awning. If you have a pool, float flowers and floating candles; light the candles for an evening luau.
Tags: palm trees, your yard, various locations