Entertaining Guide: Party Must-Haves to Kick Off Summer

Amp up the summer fun with these expert-approved tips

By The LifeMinute Team

May 2, 2016

A savvy alternative to been-there, done-that drinks, delicious chips and salsa and a bug-free formula that works make for your best summer yet. Lifestyle expert Bahar Takhtehchian takes a moment to share some of her favorite summer entertaining tips.

Summer Cider

Hard cider is the perfect alternative to beer and wine this summer, according to Takhtehchian. "Angry Orchard has great hard ciders. Each batch is made with top quality ingredients and they have a variety of favors. Everything from crisp apple which I love because it tastes like biting into a juicy apple, to another great option, Summer Honey."

Another bonus? They're ultra-portable and are available in glass bottles or cans, so it's a cinch to take them on hikes or drink them poolside. In addition, you can also get creative and cook with them. "We made some really tasty cheddar bacon sliders with the Crisp Apple Hard Cider. They pair so well with some of your favorite summer meals," says the expert.

For more information go to AngryOrchard.com or visit an orchard in upstate New York.

Summer Snacks

First you have hard cider, now you need some chips and salsa. Why not try one from Garden Fresh Gourmet? "They've been in the salsa making business for more than fifteen years and are America's number one refrigerated salsa brand. They make small batches of salsa every single day and have a variety of flavors," Takhtehchian says. Try their new restaurant style salsa, which comes in mild or medium and contains delicious flavors like tomato, cilantro, jalepeno and onion. The salsa pairs well with crispy, authentic-tasting Garden Fresh Gourmet tortilla chips.

Find both of these products in the deli section of select grocery stores.

Summer Bug Smarts

Keep you and your family comfortable by keeping bugs at bay--especially mosquitos. Avon has been in the business of keeping you and your family bug-free for over seventeen years now. They've got an exclusive time-release formula, Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Picaridin, that is DEET free (but contains ingredients that are an effective alternative to DEET). It contains Vitamin E and time-release technology, which is strong and dependable protection. Another plus: It comes in spray or handy towelettes for easy travel.

Get more info by going to Avon.com or speaking to your representative.