As the 4th of July approaches, many of us are looking forward to celebrating with friends and family. And what better way to celebrate than with a memorable 4th of July party? To help us plan the perfect party, we turned to renowned chef and culinary expert Emily Susman. With years of experience in the food industry, Emily has all the tips and tricks to make your 4th of July party a hit. In an exclusive interview with ET, she shares her insights on everything you need to know to host a memorable 4th of July party.
First and foremost, Emily emphasizes the importance of planning ahead. “A successful party starts with a solid plan,” she says. “Make a list of everything you need, from food and drinks to decorations and entertainment. This will not only help you stay organized, but also ensure that you don’t forget anything important.”
When it comes to food, Emily suggests keeping it simple and sticking to classic American dishes. “Think burgers, hot dogs, and BBQ ribs,” she says. “These are crowd-pleasing favorites that are easy to prepare and perfect for a summer party.” She also recommends incorporating some fresh and healthy options, such as a colorful fruit platter or a refreshing salad, to balance out the indulgent dishes.
But what about drinks? Emily advises stocking up on a variety of beverages to cater to everyone’s preferences. “You can’t go wrong with a cooler filled with ice-cold beers and sodas,” she says. “But don’t forget about non-alcoholic options like lemonade, iced tea, and flavored water for those who don’t drink or are designated drivers.”
When it comes to decorations, Emily suggests keeping it simple yet festive. “You don’t need to go overboard with decorations,” she says. “A few American flags, some red, white, and blue streamers, and some patriotic plates and cups will do the trick. You can also add some sparklers or fireworks for a fun and memorable touch.”
In addition to food and drinks, entertainment is also a crucial aspect of any party. Emily recommends planning some fun activities for your guests, such as a backyard game tournament or a DIY ice cream sundae bar. “These activities will not only keep your guests entertained, but also create a sense of camaraderie and make your party stand out,” she says.
As for music, Emily suggests creating a playlist of upbeat and patriotic songs to set the mood. “Music is a great way to bring people together and create a fun and lively atmosphere,” she says. “You can also ask your guests to suggest songs beforehand to make sure everyone’s favorite tunes are included.”
But what truly sets a memorable 4th of July party apart is the personal touch. Emily encourages hosts to add their own unique touch to the party, whether it’s a signature cocktail or a special dessert. “Your guests will appreciate the effort you put into making the party special and will remember it for years to come,” she says.
Lastly, Emily reminds us to have fun and not stress too much about the details. “At the end of the day, it’s about spending time with your loved ones and celebrating the spirit of Independence Day,” she says. “Don’t worry if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned. Just relax, enjoy the company of your guests, and have a good time.”
In conclusion, hosting a memorable 4th of July party is all about planning, keeping it simple yet festive, and adding your own personal touch. With these tips from Emily Susman, you can be sure that your party will be a hit and leave your guests talking about it for years to come. So go ahead and start planning your 4th of July party, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Happy Independence Day!