Planning a party by the swimming pool to beat the heat? From making the invites in the shape of flip-flops, adding inflatable items like life-sized floats and quirky props add a fun twist to the party with some creativeness, says an expert.

Ritika Nangia, founder of Funcart.in, shares some creative tips to organise a pool party.

* Send out invitations that spell out poolside fun and enjoyment, so be it a simple roll out tied with LED pool sunglasses or an invitation rolled away in a summery pool hat. Make sure your invitations look fancy and something that no one can refuse. Invites in the shape of flip-flops too would look ideal. Baskets with goodies tied up with shells too spell out an enjoyable water event.

* The decor is very important for a pool party as simply having a pool is not enough. The poolside needs to look inviting so that people can unwind. Putting in some inflatable items like life size floats and balls in the pool are a good way to start. Make sure you do have recliners and garden umbrellas. Make sure you have a brilliant play-list or a good DJ to play the latest music.

* Stock your party with umpteen props for guests to grab and click pictures with. Parties that draw crowds are usually with great food, a good theme and ample props to flaunt. Keep a basket full of scarves, plastic sunglasses, little bathtub duckies, hats, flip flops and related accessories for guests to use. Polka dot balloons scattered around the venue too would make pretty options.

* You can innovate with the theme by incorporating the new designs party supplies offer and serve in polka dot plates available in various summer colours. To match the plates you can team cutlery and napkins too, that have bright colours or similar polka dots.

* A perfect menu would include colourful mocktails and cocktails, fusion ‘gol-gappas’ would also be a great innovation. One could team up savouries and sweet on one single table and let guests choose what they want to eat. Cupcakes with colourful icing and wrappers will attract many children and adults and will be a great hit.