It's the middle of July and that means half the summer is over, but it's not too late to plan a summer party - or even one for Memorial Day as you say goodbye to summer and the kids get ready to go back to school. 

This summer has been a scorcher for most of the United States, and it doesn't look like there will be much of a reprieve for the next couple of weeks at least. Pool or beach parties are always welcome during this type of weather for your guests to cool off. If you don't have a beach or pool nearby, you could consider renting a motel pool. If that is not an option, create the atmosphere with a white tent, large umbrella anchored into the ground (so as not to blow away) or tables with umbrellas and plenty of lounge chairs. You can have the party on the grass, or bring it to a deck and scatter sand around for the authentic beach feel. A separate sandbox area for kids would be a nice touch, and don't forget the adults who want to build sandcastles and sand art as well.

For ceremonies, you may want to hold the event later in the afternoon, when the heat has subsided some. Provide parasols or fans for your guests to cool down, and bottled water in coolers to prevent heat stroke. A fun idea would be to have personalized water bottles as favors for your guests to keep and remember your event.

Keep your refreshments light - iced drinks and chilled salads and fruits. Informal affairs can also include hot dogs, hamburgers, steaks, ribs or chicken from the grill, and a condiment table with all sorts of additives.

In addition to the sand area, have music and an area to dance. Provide towels and sunscreen for your guests (small sample sizes are available), and of course have a first aid kit handy.

Putting together a party in extreme heat can be challenging, but as long as you take extra precautions to make sure there are shady areas, plenty of fluids, and places to sit to keep out of the sun, any event can survive the heat waves of 2011.