Decorate the Space

• Begin to create the look of a luau by decorating large items in the room or anoutdoor area. Streamers running from tree to tree - or corner to corner - can instantly add color. A simple way to cover a table is to buy a bold floral print fabric large enough to cover it and drape to the floor. Sew a 1-inch hem around each side and spread the cloth over the table.
  
  An easy placemat for seated dining or to set under the centerpiece can be made by cutting fringe around the edges of a large piece of green construction paper. You can also buy cheap plastic flowers at a dollar store or discount retailer and clip the stems off. Sprinkle the flowers around place settings and dishes to enhance the party feel.
  
  

Keep It Bright

• Other touches to spice up the luau around your home or in the backyard are to hang paper chains using several different bright colors of paper or to create paper lanterns. Be sure to use bright, festive colors such as pinks, blues, oranges, greens, yellow, red, etc.
  
  If you are talented enough, you also can make paper flowers using the same method as making snowflakes; fold brightly colored paper and cut curved shapes - instead of straight lines - into the paper. Or put together a handmade pinata and fill it with sweets for big or little kids. Shapes to consider are pineapples, coconuts, palm trees or fish. Hang it as a decoration and break it open as the party nears an end.
  
  

Add Details

• If you have a set of acrylic paints or water colors, you may also opt to paint brightly colored flowers on seashells. Leftover cardboard boxes can be cut and painted to look like festive ukuleles. Images of coconuts, pineapples, flip flops and palm trees can be drawn in sidewalk chalk leading into your home or along your deck or patio. Some items you may want to buy for the party are flower leis, drink umbrellas, grass skirts and tiki torches. All that is left is to break out your favorite Hawaiian music and get ready to limbo.