by Deborah Messner

Created on: July 09, 2008

Not everyone that loves being at the beach lives close enough to one to partake in traditional beach parties. However, with a few simple guidelines to follow, planning a fun backyard luau can be easy, inexpensive and a huge hit with your guests!

Traditional Hawaiian luaus are truly a beautiful sight to behold. Luaus can be held for just about any occasion, including birthdays, weddings, reunions, graduations or any other reason for a fun get-together with friends. The relaxed atmosphere, candle or tiki torch lighting, Hawaiian background music, scent of flowers, and great food mean a fantastic opportunity of fun for a group wanting to just kick back and relax.

The invitations to your luau should be as laid back and informal as possible, to set the guest mood early for a casual "island time" experience. A quick search through an Office Max or party supply store can offer a variety of flower-themed or beach-themed invitations, stationary and envelopes that will be perfect for inviting your guests to your luau. Be sure to mention the time, date, and location of your party on the invitation, as well as if guests are requested to bring anything with them (side dishes, beverages, etc.) Be sure to indicate that the party is a luau, and that beach attire, Hawaiian print clothing and flip flops are recommended for everyone's comfort.

The atmosphere of your back yard, deck, pool or home is the key to creating the perfect luau. Oriental Trading Company (OrientalTrading.com) has an excellent selection of luau decorations, and even has an entire section of their web site devoted to luau party supplies at fantastically low prices. They have party decorations, leis, crafts for kids, apparel, candy, and even gifts for your guests! You can also visit The Hawaiian Luau Party Store at HawaiianLuauParty.com for terrific luau ideas as well. Both are great places to start planning for your luau themed event, and to get ideas for your overall party atmosphere.

If you're entertaining in the back yard, try placing tiki torches around it to create a soft, warm glow to set the mood for your party. You can even get tabletop tiki torches as centerpieces for each table. Plan to greet your guests with a silk lei to place around their neck (it's a Hawaiian tradition to welcome your guests that way!), or even authentic real flower leis that can be special-ordered at www.hawaiiflowerlei.com for your party. Add a special touch by offering fresh flowers to place behind your guests' ears upon arrival,

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