★
SIMPLY NORTH
Cabin Couture
A northwoods y t r a p deck
Throw a Minnesota luau: All you need is fish and plenty of citronella tiki torches to keep the bugs away Select a theme Living in the northwoods brings an opportunity for a unique theme. Instead of throwing a Hawaiian luau, throw a Minnesota luau. Ditch the flower leis for cattail leis. Tiki torches will still work, but fill them with citronella oil to keep pesky mosquitoes away. Hawaiian button up shirts can be replaced with your favorite resort shirt or a fishing vest.
Keep it clean Hosing off the deck may seem like a nobrainer, but keeping grass clippings, dirt and other mess away from areas where people will eat is a must for any outdoor event. Keep trash cans handy during the party. In case of wind, keep a few washed rocks or 8
thematic paperweights handy to keep napkins, tablecloths, and lightweight items from blowing away.
Create a menu Nothing says a Minnesota deck party like a traditional fish fry. Fish can be purchased in bulk from area distributors or, with enough advance warning, guests can BYOF (bring your own fish.) To really tap into tradition, a number of local residents say a fish fry isn’t authentic without bacon and onion sandwiches to kick off the meal. As the story goes, bacon and onion sandwiches are served at fish fries to create grease to cook the fish in or if anglers didn’t catch any fish, at least they had a sandwich to eat.
Decorate Creating a comfortable atmosphere for guests adds to any party, especially those outdoors. Throw a decorative cushion or pillow on plastic chairs to add color and comfort. Candles set the mood for an evening party — and help keep the bugs away. Add bark and local plants and flowers to simple vases as centerpieces.
Activities Set up a volleyball net, horseshoe pit or croquet in the yard to keep guests entertained. Providing entertainment for all ages (including kids activities for family parties) will keep the party going and everyone happy. Music to fit the theme of the party will liven the mood.