Resident Pool Party Ideas for Apartment Communities
May 23, 2019 1:09 pm Leave your thoughtsIt’s that time of year again! The weather is finally warming up and it’s almost time to open the pool to residents.
A great way to make your residents feel like home is to help them get to know their neighbors. What better way to do that than to host a resident pool party and have some fun? If there’s one thing our team knows how to do, it’s how to throw a party!
We’ve come up with some budget-friendly ideas for apartment communities to keep residents cool, refreshed, and engaged at summer pool parties. As you may know, planning a party can be a lot of work, but with helpful tips from Market Apartments, you can plan the best resident pool party of the season on a budget anyone can afford.
Let’s dive into the practical steps and creative ideas that will ensure your event is both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
Customizing Pool Parties for Various Apartment Sizes
When planning a resident pool party, the size and structure of your apartment community can greatly influence the event’s dynamics. Let’s explore how to customize pool parties for both large apartment complexes and smaller, more intimate settings.
Large Apartment Complexes
In large apartment complexes, pool parties are an excellent opportunity for large-scale socializing. Here, diversity is key. Offer a variety of activities to cater to different interests and age groups. For instance, organize a pool volleyball tournament for the sporty crowd, a water aerobics session for fitness enthusiasts, and a splash zone for kids. Food stations offering a range of options from grilled delicacies to vegan treats can cater to diverse tastes. Entertainment can be amplified too – consider hiring a DJ or a local band to set a lively mood.
Smaller Complexes
In contrast, smaller complexes with one or two buildings offer a more intimate setting, ideal for fostering close-knit community bonds. Here, personalize the experience. A potluck-style food arrangement, where residents bring a dish to share, can spark conversations and a sense of belonging. Activities can be more interactive and group-oriented, like a poolside trivia contest or a group dance session. Decorations can be community-crafted, adding a personal touch. This setting is perfect for building deeper relationships among residents, turning neighbors into friends.
Buy Food in Bulk
The most important things every pool party should have is good food and entertainment. So let’s start with food.
When we think of resident pool parties, we imagine hot dogs and hamburgers, chips and dip and maybe some refreshing drinks to go along with it. Luckily, these items are very easy to buy in bulk. Sam’s Club and Costco are great places to go to when buying bulk items on a budget.
If you’d rather keep the food light since people will be swimming, you can go with pasta salad and finger foods instead. You can also get extra snacks like veggie and fruit trays for a reasonable price. When it comes to drinks, the most cost-efficient way to keep the drinks flowing is to buy powdered drinks like Kool-Aid or Lemonade. You can make gallons and save tons!
For creative apartment pool parties, set up a DIY smoothie bar where residents can mix their own refreshing drinks.
Expand your pool party food options with a ‘Make-Your-Own Taco’ station, catering to various dietary preferences and adding a fun, interactive element.
Implement resident poolside BBQ ideas by organizing a ‘Grill Master Competition’, where residents can showcase their grilling skills and share recipes.
Entertain With Fun Games
Entertainment is the next most important part of throwing a pool party. Sure the pool provides most of the fun, but after a while, it could get boring as people become tired from being in the sun. The whole point of having a resident party is to bring residents together. Happy residents lead to renewed leases. So what can you do to spice up the party? Well, lots of things, but games are a big one.
Having a volleyball net set up in the pool makes for hours of fun. You can also set up a corn hole set off to the side for another fun game that almost everyone will enjoy. For more budget-friendly games, leave a few decks of cards out on the patio tables! Most people enjoy card games! Plus, they can sit in the shade and still enjoy the party.
Inclusive Activities for All Age Groups
Creating a pool party that everyone enjoys means thinking about all age groups. For the kids, imagine the excitement of a water balloon toss. It’s simple, fun, and perfect for a sunny day by the pool. Picture the laughter and the friendly competition as they play, making new friends along the way.
Aqua aerobics is a fantastic choice for senior residents. It’s gentle on the joints and a great way to stay active. Imagine the seniors in your community, smiling and socializing, all while getting a good, low-impact workout in the water. This activity not only promotes health but also encourages our older residents to be part of the fun.
Adults aren’t left out either. Pool trivia can be a real hit. It’s a great way to test knowledge and have some laughs. Picture groups of adults, gathered around the pool, engaging in friendly competition. It’s a wonderful way to break the ice and encourage conversations among neighbors who might not know each other well.
Explore resident event ideas like a ‘Poolside Talent Show’ where residents can showcase their skills, fostering community engagement and entertainment.
Implement summer pool party ideas like a ‘Sunset Yoga Session’ by the pool, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for residents.
Activities like this mean that everyone, regardless of age, feels included and valued. They foster a sense of community and belonging, which is key to a successful and memorable pool party. Plus, they align with the goal of sustainability and environmental responsibility, as they require minimal resources and have a low environmental impact.
Get Creative With Themes and Decorations
Adding a theme to any party is always a good idea in our opinion. Some fun examples include having a shark theme, beach ball party, or a luau. Whatever the theme, just be sure to keep it simple and fun. We promise it’ll be a hit! When it comes to pool party themes, it’s all about the decorations.
For an unforgettable experience, consider ‘Hollywood Glam’ as one of your apartment pool party themes, where residents can dress as movie stars and enjoy a red-carpet photo session. You can find tons of fun decorations for your themed pool party at the Dollar Tree or on Amazon! Find anything from table skirts to inflatable pool toys. The more creative you get, the more fun it will be for everyone.
Incorporate eco-friendly pool party decoration ideas, like biodegradable balloons and solar-powered fairy lights, to promote sustainability.
Share pool area decorating tips in your community blog, like using reusable tableware and natural decor to minimize waste and enhance aesthetics.
Themed Poolside Photo Booths
Setting up a themed photo booth is a fantastic way to add an extra layer of fun. It’s simple, interactive, and everyone loves it. You can match the photo booth theme with the party’s overall theme, like tropical paradise or retro beach bash. The best part? It’s incredibly budget-friendly and easy to create.
For a DIY photo booth, all you need is a little creativity and some basic supplies. Use colorful fabric or streamers for the backdrop. You can even paint a large piece of cardboard to make a unique scene. For props, think sunglasses, inflatable pool toys, and funny hats. These can often be found at dollar stores or can be handmade. Encourage residents to bring their own props too, adding a personal touch to the photos.
The photo booth becomes a focal point of the party, where residents can gather, take fun photos, and create lasting memories. It’s also a great way for people to break the ice and interact with neighbors they haven’t met yet.
After the party, share the photos on your community’s social media pages or bulletin board. This not only showcases the fun everyone had at the event but also strengthens the sense of community among residents.
Poolside Concert
Transform your resident pool party into a vibrant festival with live music and a dance floor. Picture this: a local band or DJ setting the mood with upbeat tunes, creating a lively atmosphere that invites everyone to dance and enjoy. Here’s how to make it happen.
Check out nearby music schools, community events, or social media for bands and DJs who specialize in lively, engaging performances. When you find the right fit, discuss their requirements for space and equipment. Make sure there’s enough room for both the performers and a dance area. Remember, the goal is to create an inviting space that encourages everyone to let loose and have fun.
Focus on the dance floor. It doesn’t have to be fancy – a simple, flat area near the pool will do. Make sure it’s safe and slip-resistant, especially since it’s close to water. Add some string lights or colorful lanterns for a festive touch. This setup not only enhances the party vibe but also ensures safety as the sun sets.
Consider arranging a poolside magic show or a stand-up comedy act, adding a unique twist to poolside entertainment for residents.
Coordinate with the performers about the playlist. It should be a mix that appeals to all ages, keeping the energy high and inclusive. Encourage song requests from residents before the event to make them feel part of the experience. This approach not only boosts the fun factor but also fosters a stronger community bond as residents groove to their favorite tunes together.
Poolside Movie Night
A poolside movie night, or a “Dive-In Theater,” offers a unique twist to traditional movie watching, combining the fun of a pool party with the excitement of an outdoor cinema. Here’s how to set it up for a night your residents will always remember.
Focus on the technical setup. You’ll need a projector and a screen. Renting these can be easy and cost-effective. Local AV rental companies often provide outdoor movie equipment, and they can guide you on the best options for your space.
Position the screen where everyone can see it, ideally at the pool’s edge. For sound, waterproof speakers are a great choice, ensuring clear audio that reaches even those floating in the pool.
Choose films that resonate with a wide audience – family-friendly classics or popular blockbusters are usually a hit. Remember, the goal is to create an inclusive atmosphere, so avoid movies that might be too niche or controversial. You can even turn the movie selection into a community decision, allowing residents to vote on a shortlist of titles beforehand.
Enhance your evening pool party lighting with underwater LED lights and floating lanterns, creating a magical and inviting ambiance.
Crafting Corner
A crafting corner, set up for both kids and adults, can be just that magical spot. Here, guests of all ages can engage in hands-on activities, adding a unique and memorable twist to your event. Picture families gathered around tables, laughing and crafting together, creating not just crafts but also lasting memories.
One engaging activity for this corner is making pool-themed crafts. Provide materials like colorful paper, markers, glue, and glitter. Guests can create their own imaginative sea creatures, from paper plate jellyfish to cupcake liner turtles. For a more interactive experience, consider setting up a station for decorating swim caps. Offer waterproof markers and stencils for guests to personalize their swimwear. It’s not only fun but also a great way for guests to showcase their personalities.
Include Prizes
Get residents excited about going to your pool party by including prizes! Kitchen items like pot holders and dish towels make for fun giveaways, and they won’t break the bank! For another easy prize, put together a bucket of cleaning supplies. These items are budget-friendly and can be found at several stores. Residents love gifts like this because it’s stuff everyone needs. You really can’t go wrong! Check out our Pinterest board titled “Resident Pool Party Ideas” for more creative ideas on resident giveaways.
If you’re looking to spend a little more money to keep people interested in staying, you may consider giving away gift cards. Gift cards are a nice gesture because it’s almost like you’re giving away money! Wal-Mart and Target gift cards will likely be used in any household, but giving away restaurant gift cards would be worth the wait too.
Collaborate with Local Businesses for Sponsorships
Partnering with local businesses is a smart move that not only saves costs but also strengthens community ties. Imagine local cafes, bakeries, or even a fitness center contributing to your event. This collaboration is a win-win: businesses get exposure, and your party gets an extra flair. In community pool party planning, engaging a local event planner can offer professional insights and unique ideas, ensuring a seamless and memorable event.
Approaching local businesses is straightforward. Start by identifying businesses that align with your event’s theme or audience. For instance, a local ice cream shop for a summer bash or a sports store for a sports-themed party. Then, propose a mutual promotion deal. They could offer prizes, discounts, or services in exchange for advertising at your event. It’s a chance for them to reach potential customers directly in the community.
Think creatively about sponsorship deals. A local restaurant could provide catering at a discount, adding a touch of local flavor to your party. Or a nearby tech store might donate a gadget for a raffle prize, creating excitement among attendees. These partnerships not only enhance the party experience but also foster a sense of community spirit, as residents appreciate the involvement of local businesses in their activities.
Health and Safety Guidelines for Pool Parties
Prioritizing the well-being and safety of all attendees is essential at any resident pool party. Let’s focus on some key health and safety guidelines to ensure everyone has a great time without any worries.
Pool supervision is a must. Always have a designated adult or a professional lifeguard on duty to monitor swimming activities. This ensures quick response in case of any emergencies and maintains a safe swimming environment. It’s also important to clearly mark the shallow and deep ends of the pool for everyone’s awareness.
Next, hydration is key, especially on hot summer days. Set up hydration stations with water and encourage everyone to drink regularly. This prevents dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Also, having shaded areas or umbrellas provides a cool retreat from the sun, allowing everyone to enjoy the party comfortably.
Lastly, emergency preparedness cannot be overstated. Have a well-stocked first-aid kit readily available and ensure that at least one person present is trained in basic first aid and CPR. This preparation can make a significant difference in handling any unexpected situations effectively.
Get the Word Out!
Don’t forget to advertise and get the word out about your resident pool party! This is a great time to offer an incentive for resident referrals! Have your residents bring a friend. That friend could be your next resident! There are so many ways to let your residents know what’s going on at your community.
If you need help coming up with marketing strategies, Market Apartments can help! We create flyers, door hangers, posters and more. We’ll even help you send an email blast! Check out our website today, or email us at Sales@marketapts.com for more information.
So there you have it. All the things you need to host a fun resident pool party on a budget!
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Categorised in: Apartment Marketing, For Property Managers, Resident Retention
This post was written by Chandra Lloyd
Chandra Lloyd is a writer for Market Apts with a focus on SEO copywriting and digital marketing for multifamily housing.