A Quick and Easy Summer Neighborhood Party

We’ve been busy, busy, busy lately and on the go. And feeling like we needed a little reconnection with the neighborhood people. So, we had a little impromptu summer neighbor party. Food, friends and fun. What else can you ask for?

Thankfully, only one stop was needed…a trip to BJ’s. They had everything I needed to grab for our lunchtime get together (and so much more!) When I’m super short on time (I had about 1.5 hours to gather everything, purchase it, run home and get everything settled), I need a store where I can get everything I need in one stop. I’d call a party in 1.5 hours a win.

Everything seen here was all ready to go when I walked in the store. Anybody can come into the store and immediately grab some Wellsley Farms Organic Blue Corn Tortilla Chips (Non-GMO, gluten-free and kosher), Wellsley Farms Organic Salsa, plantain chips, a Wellsley Farms veggie and fruit tray, hummus and a Wellsley Farms Cookie Platter or Brownie Bites. That was accomplished in about 10 minutes. And, it was only 10 minutes because my girls couldn’t decide on the cookies!

One thing I did call ahead and order was a Wellsley Farms Sandwich Ring that serves 12 – 15 that had Honey Ham, Smoked Turkey Breast and Swiss Cheese, sliced tomatoes and lettuce. It took a few minutes to order on the phone and a few minutes to pick up and that was only because there was a line at the deli. I had no idea BJs was known for their deli meats. The sandwich was a big hit. One person even said “I’m not a big sandwich person and this is good.”

While we didn’t get one this time, they also do custom order cakes and a couple other deli/bakery options. You can check out their order form online for many more options, or have a look at the store. They also had all of the necessary Berkley Jensen paper plates and 18 oz. Cups (a premium plastic in a classic red color). So, here’s a pro tip, though. When you buy the cups, make sure you actually buy something to put in them. Thankfully, our neighbors like ice water! (Whoops!)

The kids had a great time listening to music, dancing and playing together (and rubbing a plate of hummus into the carpet..thankfully that washes out).

Then, they went out side and jumped on the trampoline and played on the playset while the parents enjoyed some indoor AC and quiet.

A gathering of friends and neighbors doesn’t have to be stressful or involve a lot of planning. It’s more about the company and the fun. And good food helps. Thankfully, BJ’s Wholesale Club makes it easier. They are offering non-members a Free 90-Day Membership available now through Sunday, July 3.

Shoppers can print the coupon and visit their local BJ’s club to activate their trial. Once enrolled, shoppers are given a membership number and will receive a membership card upon visiting the member services desk.

BJ’s is also currently offering a 15 month membership for $40 now through Sunday, July 3 plus a coupon book with more than $2,000 worth of savings.

What is your favorite trick for having a quick and easy party?