Storybook Summer
how to have a
Summer is the season for good vibes, long nights, and lots of sunshine — obviously, you’re going to want to make the most of it. Your head is probably already buzzing with all the barbecues, rooftop parties, and get-togethers filling up precious space on your calendar. Before the season flies by, though, we outlined a few must-dos to really make this summer one for the books. From hosting a reunion getaway to planning a garden party complete with matching Smirnoff Peach and Pink Lemonade cocktails, here’s how to soak up every sunny second this season.
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Host a Garden Party
Nothing against barbecues, but this summer, we’re fully embracing the #cottagecore life with a garden party. Whether your garden is a few pots on a balcony or a full backyard decked out with perennials, schedule this gathering for when your plants are in full bloom, and encourage everyone to wear their favorite sundresses, floppy hats, and floral prints.
Bring the theme to life by potting some small plants with your guests, so everyone can bring a bit of greenery home.
Hot Tip:
Tea Punch
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients:
A garden party isn’t complete without tea — we’ll take ours iced and a little boozy. This tea punch combines Smirnoff Pink Lemonade with kombucha and watermelon juice for a large-format drink that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
2 cups Smirnoff Pink Lemonade 25 ounces watermelon juice 25 ounces fresh lemonade 10 ounces kombucha Fresh fruit, for garnish
Add all ingredients into a punch bowl or carafe filled with ice. Give it a gentle stir. Garnish with fresh seasonal fruit.
Instructions:
DRINK THIS:
Organize a Group Hike and Picnic
Finding affordable activities for the entire group to do together can be a challenge, especially if your friends have conflicting schedules. A scenic, beginner-friendly hike can usually be squeezed into an afternoon, and many local trails are totally free to check out. (Throw some cash in your glove compartment just in case you need to pay to park, though!)
Plan a picnic for when you get to the best photo spot along the trail, then make sure you grab a few pics!
Bring This
Sandwiches will pack best with a simple ice pack to keep them cool. Be sure to decant your adult beverages into a lightweight, soft bottle so they aren’t too heavy.
BRING THIS:
Have at Least 1 Totally Screen- Free Weekend
A weekend without binging a new show or scrolling TikTok may seem overwhelming, but it can be the best medicine when you’re feeling burnt out. Plus, it’ll ensure you’re 100 percent present with whatever you plan. Teach yourself a new skill, go for a walk around your neighborhood, hit the beach, or just take a nap outside and embrace those lazy summer vibes.
Keep your phone in an accessible but purposeful spot while you unplug. Think: a kitchen drawer, or on its charger by your nightstand. It’s handy if you need it but just inconvenient enough so you’re not checking it out of habit.
Have This
Get your summer reading list handy. Flip through a fantasy novel, beach read, or thriller to keep your mind off your missed notifications.
Have This:
Take Movie Night Outside
Summer blockbusters are much more fun to experience drive- in style, and you can re-create that vibe in your own backyard. You’ll need a portable projector and a large blank wall (or a white bedsheet!) to set up your screening. Many projectors have a built-in speaker, but if you want an upgrade, make sure it has a Bluetooth option.
Don’t forget the bug spray! Nothing kills movie night faster than mosquitos.
Eat This
Kick up your movie popcorn with a few simple seasonings. Add garlic powder, red-pepper flakes, and cheddar for a spicy, cheesy mix, or mix cinnamon and sugar for a salty and sweet combo.
Eat This:
Making plans to get away with those you haven’t seen for a minute will certainly make summer 2022 one to remember, even if it’s just for a few days. Take a poll from the group on budget, free weekends, and ideal outings, then start shopping around for group rates on activities and lodging.
Keep everyone updated on pricing and dates as you plan, then deputize others to schedule fun activities when you’re actually on your trip.
Plan a Reunion Getaway
Wherever you’re staying, you’ll want to stock the fridge with drinks to keep the good vibes flowing. These group-serve peach bellinis with Smirnoff Peach Lemonade are so simple, they come together in just a minute or two.
15 ounces Smirnoff Peach Lemonade 1 bottle sparkling wine Mint sprigs, for garnish
Peach Bellinis
Add all ingredients to a pitcher, then stir gently. Garnish with mint sprigs to serve.
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