Bring the fun of the beach to your friends and family with your own theme party.
Hosting a beach theme party is an easy way to unite friends and family in fun and irreverence. Sensory images associated with the beach, like warm sand under your toes, cool breezes blowing across the water or the aroma of salt wafting across the waves are enough to coax even the most bashful wallflower out of his shell. This theme is suitable for all ages. As part of the theme, consider making crafts that utilize items associated with the shore.
Seashell Candles
If you are hosting an evening beach themed soiree, consider crafting your own twist on the traditional candle. Add soft ambiance to your party by creating seashell candles. Party guests can assemble their own, or you can have extras already prepared and nestled into favor bags, so your friends can take a little piece of the beach home with them. Domestic maven Martha Stewart suggests using deep shells like scallops or clams to ensure that the candles are large enough to last all night. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the seashells and allowing them to dry; if you are running short on time, consider laying them outside so the sun can soak up the moisture from each little crevice. Melt paraffin wax in summer coral hues, using a double boiler. Attach a wick in a metal holder (which you can find pre-assembled at craft stores) to the inside of the shell, and carefully pour the wax into the shell. Be sure to allow the wax to cool thoroughly before use.
Edible Aquarium
If your beach bash is aimed at younger guests, help them to create their own edible aquariums, using blue gelatin, gummy fish or sharks, and clear plastic cups. Prepare the gelatin as normal, pouring it into the plastic cups, and placing the cups in the refrigerator. Allow the substance to set for about an hour, so that it is still partially liquid. Allow your beachgoers to fill their "aquariums" with gummy sea creatures. Place the cups back into the refrigerator so that the gelatin can finish setting. Your party guests can opt to enjoy their catches at the party or take them home as favors. If you won't have time for this activity during the party, you can make one large aquarium, using a clear punch bowl full of gelatin and packing it with fish and sharks.
Sand Art
Guests of all ages will enjoy creating their own colorful sand art masterpieces. Set up a craft station complete with bowls of brightly colored sand, each equipped with its own scoop. Also provide clear glass bottles, which can be reused from products like olive oil or salad dressing, but must be cleaned and dried thoroughly. If you are on a tight budget, you also can use clear plastic soda or water bottles, with the labels removed. Be sure to lay out funnels to ensure precision when your guests are creating their own masterpieces.
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