THAT’S ENTERTAIN MENT!

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT! CABANA COCKTAILS

Expert insight into hosting a posh poolside party

By Steven Stolman Photography by Nick Mele

Ever since in-ground swimming pools began to appear on residential properties, poolside entertaining has been a popular pastime. Whether guests are actually in the water or simply gathering at water’s edge, there’s something intrinsically relaxed about this particular mise-en-scène. All one has to do is look at style-centric photography—from Slim Aarons’ iconic shots to those organized by Hollywood press agents at places like The Beverly Hills Hotel—to understand the allure of socializing near a sparkling body of chlorinated water. Add to this a little architectural element such as a pool house or its more modest cousin, the cabana, and you’ve got a perfect venue for a party.

Many Palm Beach condos have cabanas that are separately deeded, especially if they are blessed with generous decks or beach access. They range from glorified storage units to full-on entertaining spaces with bathrooms, wet bars, and air conditioning, which—given the nature of a cabana—seems like an exercise in futility.

Our own cabana is something in-between. It has a powder room and a separate shower, along with a wet bar and an undercounter fridge, but that’s about it. Because it’s only protected from the elements by a set of

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Tips for a Successful Cabana Cocktail Gathering

»Regardless of whether you go electronic or printed, choose a lively, aquatic-themed invitation, something that sets the tone and can act as inspiration for every other creative decision. Be clear that it will be an outdoor event, as that will inform guests’ clothing choices. Memories of COVID and its wrath are still fresh, and an alfresco venue can go a long way in reassuring attendees that they will be safe and comfortable.

accordion shutters, the sun and salt air wreak havoc; we’ve seen settees decompose before our eyes and barstools rust practically overnight. Rather than fight it, our strategy is to keep decor to a minimum and use the most weather-resistant furnishings we can find.

Still, we love having our little poolside snug and enjoy sharing it with others. Early on, I found a wonderful photo of a very young Lilly and Peter Pulitzer and their pet monkey, Goony. In the background is a stunning sailfish mounted on the wall. And wouldn’t you know it, Amazon sells realistic replicas of exactly the same fish. Who could resist? Other decorative elements include carved coconut heads from the Bahamas and, for a little touch of kitsch, photos of select cast members from the 1960s TV show Gilligan’s Island. It’s not haute decor, but it makes us happy and guests seem to enjoy it— especially when cocktails are involved.

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Hire a bartender at the very least.

A server, who can pass hors d’oeuvres and continuously bus the area, is also a good idea. There’s nothing worse than not being able to be a guest at your own party because you are too busy making drinks or passing a tray. Provide your bartender with a crisp T-shirt that matches the invitation and allow him or her to wear shorts and sneakers.

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Continue your theme with a little

bit of decor. It can be as subtle as cocktail napkins that coordinate with the invitation or a few outdoor throw pillows to scatter around the area. A little effort can reap big dividends.

Pay attention to lighting. 5Real candles invariably blow out, and glass hurricanes or lanterns present the same breakage threat as glass barware. But there are all sorts of batteryoperated or rechargeable outdoor lighting options, from giant glowing plastic globes to petite café lamps.

6Serve the simplest food imaginable. Chips and dip are always a hit. A crudités basket is a nice gesture, but often goes untouched. Be sensible with your menu and consider that you will have limited refrigeration, along with the distinct possibility of a stiff breeze or bugs. This is not the time or place for an extravagant cheeseboard, no matter what Pinterest tells you. However, if you own a chafing dish, cocktail weenies and a good, strong mustard are always a crowd-pleaser. Be sure to have an obvious receptacle for used toothpicks—many folks don’t consider this.

Invest in stylish 3

disposable plastic

barware. It is poolside, after all. One broken glass can spell disaster, not just for you and your guests but, if you live in a condo, for your neighbors too. The pool will have to be closed and drained, and you will most likely be forced to move. Just don’t do it.

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Have enough ice. This can be your bartender’s responsibility, but buy twice as much as you think you’ll need. Whether you are just serving rosé and sparkling water or a full bar, stock it generously and invest in a nice wine cooler. Always have something for non-imbibers too—avoid anything too sweet or syrupy. Save the blender drinks, and forget about signature cocktails. Well-meaning guests accept the signature cocktail, take one sip, and immediately look for a place to discretely stash it before making a beeline to the bar for a real drink.

OPULENCE ON THE OCEAN

OVERVIEW

Elegant and exclusive, this exceptional condominium offers endless ocean views and an enviable Luxuria lifestyle.

ADDRESS

2500 South Ocean Boulevard, #103, Boca Raton

YEAR BUILT

2009

ARCHITECTS

Vander Ploeg & Associates and Thomas O’Brien/O’Brien Architecture

BUILDER

Boca Ocean Development

ASKING PRICE

$9,750,000

SETTING

Designed as “the most luxurious condominium residence in the world,” Luxuria boasts all the amenities of a five-star hotel and is located on two and a half acres of prime beachfront property in Boca Raton on A1A.

SIZE

6,345 total square feet

BEDROOMS/BATHS

Four bedrooms, seven baths

INTERIOR HIGHLIGHTS

The residence’s exceptional and thoughtful design invites the seascape to unfold dramatically as you make your way into the space. Features of the highly desirable southeast corner unit include a wide footprint with sun-filled views from east to west; volume ceilings; three fireplaces; and chef’s kitchen complete with top-of-the-line appliances.

EXTERIOR HIGHLIGHTS

Luxury exudes outdoors with a private pool and gas fire pit on an expansive enclosed patio; outdoor gas summer kitchen; private direct beach access; oceanfront pool; fully equipped fitness center with resistance pool; oceanfront lounge with bar, billiards, full catering kitchen, and theater.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Lisa Galante, Lang Realty, Boca Raton (561-235-8630, lisa@lisagalante.com)

hive trade showroom | hickory chair 2218 s dixie hwy, west palm beach

hive home, gift & garden 424 palm st, west palm beach

Prestigious Sailfish Point Boulevard 7,600 sf home was taken down to the studs and completely renovated in 2017 and updated again in 2021. This 4 bed, 4.1 bath, 3 car garage pool home boasts two large walk in closets (one with washer & dryer) in the master bedroom with separate sitting room, steam shower and soaking tub. Second washer & dryer in utility room. The kitchen has Wolf appliances, Miele built-in coffee maker & side-by-side Sub Zero refrigerator & freezer. 3 fireplaces. High ceilings. Wine room with 240 bottle wine cooler. Impact windows & doors. Air Conditioned garage. Heated pool & spa. Sold furnished.

Offered at $5,100,000

DEDICATED TO SERVING SAILFISH POINT SINCE 1996 Your member-owned real estate office is here to assist you with both the sale and purchase of properties within our community.