Jonathan Adler is dedicated to bringing style, craft, and joy to your life. There are more than 25 Jonathan Adler stores worldwide, a thriving e-commerce site, and a wholesale business boasting over 1,000 locations globally. His roots as an artist and sculptor continue to influence his brand of home accessories, which includes decorative objects, tabletop collections, bedding, bath accessories, candles, furniture, rugs, pillows, lighting and more. Who better to get tips from for entertaining guests than Adler himself. Below are 5 simple tips to make your next shindig a success:
1. I am all about a bright, bold beach towel. Beach towels do triple duty: they’re super cozy after a dip in the pool, draped over a chair they add color to any table and I love a towel because they work as a throw and you can always wrap yourself in them if it gets cool.
2. Music, Music who can entertain without music? And don’t just pop on Pandora. I always curate a summer-chic playlist and I have to be honest, I’m a country fan. I think the only thing more authentically American than country music is a rusty Ford pickup truck, and Brad Paisley is what I’ll be playing this summer.
3. Anyone who doesn’t have a bar cart is insane! Bar carts announce to the world that you’re a good decorator, that you’re a little bit louche, and that you’re up for a good time. My cart will be packed with the Chandon summer bottle; to me it is American summer. I adore it and it sort of encapsulates everything I think summer should be. Of course I’ll also have my nifty, well super-nifty tray I designed to go with the bottle. It’s all about anchors and nautical style, it makes you feel like you’re somewhere between the Côte d’Azur and the Hamptons.
4. Games are a great distraction in the (unlikely) event that conversation lags. Think beyond bocce and lawn darts and bring your indoor favorites outside. A lacquer backgammon set says you’re a glamorous funster.
5. A fire pit. Whether you fully commit and build one permanently or get one of the portable options that are out there, channel your inner 70s hippie with a fire pit. Everyone seems younger and more beautiful in the glow of some flames.
BONUS
Adler also dished to me that your home should feel patriotic for the Memorial Day and 4th of July holidays by adding some red, white, and blue. Serve the Chandon red, white, and blue bottles as well. He also added that everyone should refresh their throw pillows and get some rad beach towels when you’re lounging on the beach.
We hope these tips will ease your pain when it comes to party planning. Happy Summer!
Photos: Joy Jacobs