Leis are popular luau party favors.
Traditional luaus date back to the 1800s and are still popular in modern-day Hawaii for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and graduations. Of course, you don't actually have to live in the Aloha State to throw a luau. The right decorating ideas can help you bring a little taste of the islands to your party no matter where you are. Does this Spark an idea?
Basics
Dress tables with grass skirts. Use table clips or tack nails for a firm hold, and replace solid-color tablecloths with colorful sarongs. If you're hosting your bash indoors, don't forget to decorate the walls. Tack a collection of Hawaiian shirts to the walls, or hang retro travel posters to spruce things up. Another quick and easy fix is to dangle fish nets from the ceiling. Fit the windows with oversized pictures of tropical landscapes as well. They'll make it seem as if your own tropical paradise is right outside. Oversized umbrellas, hammocks and palm fronds can help you create the right vibe if your party is outdoors.
Centerpieces
Themed centerpieces are a quick and easy way to create the right feel for your luau. If you're having a florist design your tabletops, make sure she incorporates tropical blooms into the arrangement. African tulips, encyclia, etlingera, flame of the forests, frangipani, hibiscus and laelias all feature bright, beautiful blossoms appropriate for a beach party.
If your tastes run more quirky than conventional, you can dress up your tables with miniature hula dancers. These toys used to be popular dashboard adornments, but they can be used to create fun centerpieces as well. Just cover the bases with leis and give them a tap to set them in motion. Oversized glasses filled with sand, pebbles, shells and starfish also create an appropriate look. Add small candles for even more ambiance.
Lighting
Of course, tiki torches are the gold standard for Hawaiian luaus, but there are lots of ways to shake up your tropical lighting scheme. Stores specializing in imports often offer a variety of colorful paper lanterns in different shapes and sizes. You can hang them individually or string several together using a sturdy cord to create a festive look.
Backyard fire pits can also add light and warmth to an outdoor celebration. They're available at most hardware stores and come in a variety of designs. On the other hand, if children or clumsy adults populate your guest list and the idea an open flame has you checking your insurance policy, you can rent faux fire pits and torches from party rental outlets. They feature illuminated paper or cloth "flames" with an internal fan that creates the look of a flickering blaze.
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