Amy Atlas' Best Summer Party Tips

At last--summer is here and we bet you can't wait to celebrate it! If you're planning a summer party, kick it off with the perfect cocktail.

"Whenever I'm throwing a party, the first thing I start with is the all-important drink," says professional party planner Amy Atlas. Her go-to cocktail: a delicious strawberry daiquiri made with the new Bacardi Classic Light Cocktails.

"You don't have to be a mixologist to serve it up. It's so delicious and all you have to do is pour it over ice--no blender needed!" reveals Amy. Sneaky, right? Each drink is just 95 calories per serving, so partygoers can drink up (responsibly) without worrying about how they'll look in their bathing suit the next day. "Garnish the glass with a lime wheel or star fruit for a fun touch," she adds.

Next up: party snacks. Crackers with cheese or dips are always a crowd pleaser. "Wheat Thins Lime go great with the daiquiris," says Amy of this limited edition flavor that is 100% whole grain. "I love that they are portable because you want guests to walk around and mingle while grabbing little bites," says Amy.

Another great mingle-friendly hors d'oeuvre: Alexia Gourmet Side Dishes. These all-natural waffle fries and onion rings are easy to heat up and even easier to eat while working the room. "They make summer entertaining a breeze and are delicious!" says Amy.

Don't forget to liven up the buffet table. Bring it all together with a beautiful "tablescape" using fresh-cut flowers, tiered platters, cone shaped baskets and colorful bowls. "All of this is so easy and it makes entertaining convenient for the summer so you can have great parties," says Amy.

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