An Easy Guide to a Coastal Grandmother Style Party
Brittany Anderson
Editor
All the rage (or rather, not the rage) this summer, is the coastal grandmother trend that’s rising in popularity thanks to TikTok and social media. With that being said, we think a coastal grandmother style party is the perfect way to celebrate anything this summer—big or small.
Opposite of a Euphoria themed party, the coastal grandmother aesthetic includes things like: white linen, bucket hats, a fresh bowl of lemons, and a casual walk on the beach. Inspired by celebrities like Diane Keaton, Meryl Streep, and Anne Hathaway, it's all about living the good life, within your means.
A coastal grandma is always calm and comfortable, but living an Instagrammable worthy life, too. The coastal grandmother style aesthetic is inclusive to all different genders, ages, and races. This type of theme is perfect for a birthday party, book club session, or a wine night with your best friends.
Here is everything you'll need to host a coastal grandmother style party this summer:
Fresh Flowers
Take a trip to the farmer’s market like a true coastal grandma would, and pick up some fresh flowers. Use the fresh flowers for centerpieces on tables, or random decor pieces throughout your space. Fresh flowers that are white or light pastels, ideally hydrangeas, will be best.
Music
Like any great party, music is key. songs like Everlasting Love, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, and Lovely Day. Hire a live musician to play hits by Norah Jones, Nat King Cole, Frankie Valli, and Stevie Wonder.
Pro Tip: If live music isn’t in the books for you, stream our Coastal Grandmother spotify playlist.
Coastal Themed Decor
This doesn’t necessarily just mean sea shells and other beach items, it’s more about featuring the colors in a low key way. Subdued blues and teals throughout the space, on pillows, as candles, and mixed in with neutrals. The occasional starfish and sea glass can be used sparingly.
Oysters
Nothing screams coastal more than some fresh oysters. Guests can enjoy Oysters rockefeller or stuffed with butter and herbs. You can also serve oysters on the half shell, already shucked, with some lemon, vinegar, and hot sauce.
Garden Vegetables
Whatever you’re growing in your garden, raw vegetables are key to a Coastal grandma theme party. If you don’t have a garden, head to the local farmer’s market to grab a variety of their fresh vegetables. Serve with hummus, in a salad, or grilled.
Pasta
Find a unique recipe from a cookbook of Ina Garten’s to prepare for the main course. Whether you go fancy with lobster ravioli or more casual with broccoli and bow ties, you can’t go wrong. We also love Ina’s recipe for three ingredient lemon pasta which couldn’t be easier or more delicious for a coastal grandmother style night.
Pro Tip: Looking to relax and leave the food up to the professionals? Hire a local caterer to prepare food throughout the night.
Wine
Red, white, sparkling, rose—wine is key to the Coastal grandmother aesthetic. This is the perfect time (and trend) to splurge on your favorite bottles. The coastal grandmother style person enjoys their favorite wine, regardless of price, and loves nothing more than cracking open a bottle around 4PM.
Cocktails
Strong cocktails are an essential part of a Coastal grandmother theme party. Bring in a bartender or mixologist to make hand crafted dirty martinis and lavender french 75s, as well as any other favorite cocktails using sustainable ingredients and liquors.
Local Coffee & Teas
Finish the night with some local coffee or tea. Brew a fresh pot and enjoy hot cup on the beach to wind down. If you’re still ready to party, make some local espresso and use it in a martini for a nightcap.
Candles and Linens
These two items will create the calming atmosphere every coastal grandmother is looking to achieve. This is the perfect time to display and burn your favorite soy candles while using white linen tablecloths as party decor.
Neutral Colors
Probably the most prevalent of the Coastal grandmother aesthetic, is the neutral colors. From decor to outfits to food and drinks, you’ll find whites, tans, and cool pastels sprinkled throughout this type of party.
The Beach
While you may think high end interior design is a trend of this coastal grandmother style, where really the most important aspect is the beach. Much like its name, this theme party fits best on the beach or another other coastal area. There’s nothing better than sitting back and relaxing in the salty air.
Cozy Sweaters and Button Downs
When it comes to a dress code, classic white button down oxfords and cozy sweaters are what we recommend. Comfort its key. Wear loose linen pants, a straw beach hat, and you’re good to go!
When celebrating the coastal grandma lifestyle, what you eat, drink, wear, must be shared. Party guests and the host will want to share these aesthetic trends with all their followers on Instagram. Don't forget a unique hashtag to use for your event. #coastalgrandmother
Good Conversations
Coastal grandmothers love book clubs. Discussing your latest reads, and having calm, enlightening conversations with friends is a must. A good conversation on the beach with a nice glass of wine is every coastal grandmother’s dream.
Find more party themes and ideas here on The Bash.
