10 Unique Summer Trends to Impress Your Guests
(For Rooftop Bars, Resorts, Poolside, and Catered Events)
Summer is a season filled with fun and vibrant trends.
Investing in a great guest experience benefits businesses by increasing customer satisfaction, building customer loyalty, providing a competitive advantage, driving revenue growth, enhancing brand reputation, boosting employee satisfaction, and enabling continuous improvement. These factors collectively contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of a business.
We wanted to highlight a few summer trend ideas to help you plan your upcoming sun-sational summer menus and poolside presentations. Any of these unique ideas will help enhance the overall experience and helps meet the expectations of customers during the summer season. So let's get started...
1. Grilling
Grilling is a classic summer activity that brings people together for delicious outdoor meals. From barbecued meats and veggies to grilled seafood, it's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and savor flavorful dishes.
Idea! Grill up a batch of Bloody Mary cocktails! Load up juicy steak, lobster, shrimp, or vegetables on skewers and stick in a Bloody Mary or Virgin Bloody Mary for a mouthwatering brunch beverage.
Transform your menu items into creative masterpieces with Custom Picks in Full Color or Laser Printed. An eco-friendly presentation your guests will love.
2. Popsicles
Popsicles are a refreshing summer treat that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. From fruity flavors to creamy and indulgent options, they offer a delightful way to cool down on hot days. Tip! Boozy pops are very pop-ular these days.
3. Margaritas
Margaritas are a beloved summer cocktail that are timeless. They're known for their refreshing and tangy taste and are perfect for pool parties, barbecues, or any summer gathering. There are so many flavor variations of this classic. Spicy with a Tajin rim seems to be trending at the moment. And as we know, tequila is the spirit of the year, so it is extra trending.
ADD Custom Picks for an added visual presentation!
4. Charcuterie
Charcuterie boards have gained popularity in recent years, and they're a fantastic addition to summer gatherings. These boards typically feature a variety of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and crackers, allowing guests to enjoy a customizable and visually appealing spread.
Looking for more charcuterie inspo? Click HERE
5. Custom and Infused Ice Cubes
Ice cubes are taking on new dimensions with customized and infused options. Custom Ice Cubes can be shaped into various designs, adding a touch of personalization to drinks. Infused Ice Cubes are made by freezing fruits, herbs, or edible flowers into the cubes, infusing flavors into beverages as they melt.
6. Instagrammable Backdrops
Creating aesthetically pleasing and Instagram-worthy backdrops has become popular for parties and events. These backdrops often feature colorful and eye-catching designs, props, or decorations that serve as a perfect photo backdrop for social media posts. Serving food and providing excellent service is just as important as gaining social media exposure. Achieving the right balance between it all is the best way to succeed in the hospitality industry.
For ideas, Click HERE
Tips on how to do it, Click HERE
Questioning if you should upgrade your decor? Read THIS
7. Wellness drinks
As people become more health-conscious, the demand for wellness cocktails has risen. These can include beverages like cold-pressed juices with rum or whisky, infused bubbly waters with vodka, herbal teas with gin, or mocktails made with natural and nutritious ingredients.
For ideas, Click HERE
8. Seltzer Mania
The rise of hard seltzers has been accompanied by effective marketing campaigns that target younger demographics. These campaigns often emphasize lifestyle and social aspects, associating hard seltzers with fun, relaxation, and a sense of community. It seems like a new seltzer is born every day. You can offer it up in a glass with a fruit garnish or try a chamoy Tajin rim covering the can!
Want to know how the different brands rank? Click HERE
9. Food Stations
Food stations are a creative way to offer a variety of culinary options at events. These stations can be set up with different themes or cuisines, allowing guests to explore various food choices and customize their meals.
When it comes to poolside and rooftop food stations, you can get creative with the types of food and presentation to enhance the experience for your guests.
Here are some ideas to consider:
A taco bar, sushi bar, cocktail bar, popsicle stand (w/ boozy cocktail options or spiked shaved ice), fresh mex bowls and salads, seafood stand, hydration station, or a buddha bowl bar are some ideas for an exceptional guest experience.
10. Swag Items
Swag items are goodies or promotional items given to guests at events or parties. Some popular summer swag items include sunglasses, SPF sunscreen, coupons or discount codes, reusable cups or water bottles, custom charcuterie boards or boxes, fans, lip balm, and toothpick packets. Something fun to remember you by.
Click HERE for more swag ideas.
These trends encompass a range of experiences and products that contribute to a vibrant and enjoyable summer season. Remember to make sure to have ample shade, cooling misters, seating, and plenty of chilled beverages to keep everyone hydrated.