labor day is for lovers.

Yes, it’s true. Summer is coming to an end. But that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. In fact, it gives us all the more reason to celebrate. And I think Labor Day weekend brings with it the perfect opportunity to come together and do just that.

So – what does my recipe for success look like for the perfect Labor Day fête?

To start, we’ll need a pool. Or, a beach. A beach works, too.

This one should do.

We will be at the pool of great friends of ours, who live in a fabulous condo right on Fort Lauderdale Beach. This way – we get a pool, and the beach.  Take that, Ben and Christine Stiller.

Next on the agenda will be a bikini, of course. Here is a lovely one I picked out – I’m dying to try on those bottoms, and I can’t get enough of that citron color.

This gorgeous tunic from Melissa Odabash is anything and everything I could want from a coverup. The embellishments add just the right amount of sparkle, and as you’ve hear me say before – you can never go wrong with white.

Now that we’re all dressed, what’s next? A cocktail, I say. What better accessory is there? Forget the jewelry, forget the bag – hell, forget the shoes if you can. Let’s all just focus on keeping a specialty cocktail in our hand at all times.

We’ll be drinking these Blackberry Thyme Margaritas on Monday, pictured above in the center. Likely my new favorite libation of the summer, we recently made these for one of our favorite couples during an impromptu dinner party. Post to follow soon – promise. Until then, you should try them. C’mon. There’s tequila. And muddled blackberries. Fresh thyme. What’s not to like?

Nothing goes better with summery cocktails than a few tasty appetizers to ensure a happy crowd. How about a guacamole bar? I’m in love with this idea, and we will definitely be using it at our pool party this weekend. I’m thinking small bowls filled with queso fresca, chopped bacon, jalapeños, and fresh salsas scattered about the guacamole. Any other ideas?

We’re going to be grill-less at our party – but for all of you out there with grills, what better way to do Labor Day up right than serving up grilled lobster? I’m jealous at the very thought.

But, hey – I can’t really complain. We’ll be doing a delicious make-your-own sandwich station, complete with assorted fresh breads, meats, cheeses, and veggies. Add a few little bowls of different aiolis made with fresh herbs for an extra-special touch.

Anything involving S’mores is always a classic, and to me they just scream summer. They’re super easy, and everyone can have fun making their own. You can do the real thing if you have a grill, but we will likely try something we don’t need a fire for, like these *adorable* S’mores Pops. Seriously, how beyond cute are these? Can’t.even.stand.it.

I must admit, I don’t use fresh flowers nearly as much as I’d like to. They really add something special to any kind of celebration – or just a random day, placed right on the kitchen counter. I absolutely love this idea of placing little bouquets of flowers around an outdoor party. Wrapped up like so, guests can take them home as party favors when they leave.

That’s my idea of Labor Day done right – but what do YOU think? What’s everyone else doing this weekend?