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"   I was lying by the ocean in Tel Aviv last week (I was there for a wonderful wedding which I&amp;#039;ll chat about in another article!) and it got me thinking: what is it that we all LOVE so very much about beach parties? There is always something particularly exciting, and amazingly seductive about it and while details depend on which part of the world you are in or what beach you are near\u2014the magic remains the same! So, while you ideally want to hold a beach-themed party on a beach\u2014there are lots of elements that can help even a land-locked party find a few waves, such as: Pretty, but Not Kitschy, Details Avoid obvious and trite decorative elements which can make the vibe feel like a low-end prom. Things like loose shells, sailboat napkin holders and tiki torches should be used sparingly and only when kitsch is the objective. One great option is multicolored sea glass strewn on a pale blue cloth, which looks mystical and sexy. Multiples of large, chunky Roman candles set in several inches of white sand and protected from the wind by oversized glass domes add drama and just enough light to eat and drink by. White-handled flatware and clear or pink glass plates keep it all light and add the color to make flowers unnecessary. Wooden chaises, big funky inexpensive pillows and sheets or light blankets could work as well. Standing Umbrellas I love big umbrellas to shield summer parties from the sun (and in the worst case scenario, the rain). My favorites are brightly patterned; they make a big statement and can serve as the focus of your d\u00E9cor. I prefer using them lined up around long tables, although the more standard patio tables with umbrellas inserted down the center will do the trick as well. Food and Drink Decisions After all, that&amp;#039;s what makes a party doesn&amp;#039;t it? Though it depends on where you are entertaining, some things are constant: The food should be light and easy to eat. Eating with your hands is just fine for this and the food should scream SUMMER, meaning local and seasonal. The Meal (Two no-fail options) -In Israel, on the beaches, they serve wedges of the most extraordinary seedless watermelon. The rest of the meal is just hummus, pita, pickles and tahini; for me a repast in heaven. -When I&amp;#039;m on Martha&amp;#039;s Vineyard or at a chi-chi Hamptons soiree, it&amp;#039;s often a traditional clambake\u2014and I look forward to them all winter. Dessert S&amp;#039;mores, I&amp;#039;m afraid may have seen their day due to overexposure. Roasted marshmallows, however, will always be a treat and can be easily prepared using just a hibachi. Wines Rose wines are my beverages of choice in the summer and my guests seem to agree. Keep it self-service and simple with a galvanized tin filled with ice, bottles of rose, a few kinds of beer, and some sparkling water. Some tips to keep in mind: 1. Drinks should be served in good quality Lucite. Glass is too risky around either pools or sand.  2. Plan on having plenty of ice, both for icing drinks and for keeping bottles of wine and beer cold.  3. If you are entertaining away from your home base, bring lots of garbage bags and rolls of paper towels or wet naps\u2014especially for clam bakes where there never seem to be enough of either.  4. Personally, I think no beach party is really spot-on without some type of bonfire. The scent alone will transport each and every guest miles and years.  5. Toys are good, even for adults. Paddles for badminton, pails and shovels for sand castle extravaganzas and\u2014if you can possibly manage it\u2014the makings of beach volleyball will make your event a yearly must-attend!   Marcy Blum, Celebrity Eventiste MarcyBlum.com "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.elledecor.com/life-culture/entertaining/tips/a1431/backyard-beach-bash-50578/>