Turn your backyard into an island paradise with tropical decor, tiki cocktails and island inspired party food. Most of us are probably not traveling anywhere (especially to an exotic island) so why not bring the tropics to you? This simple setting with palm leaf napkins and a centerpiece filled with tropical leaves allows you to “escape” but in the safety of your backyard.

I always like to greet my guests with a smile and set the mood with a festive cocktail. The Mai Tai is a tiki bar classic with a combination of light and dark rums, orange curacao, orgeat syrup, and lime juice. They are simple to put together in a large pitcher or drink dispenser and it allows guests to serve themselves.

The centerpiece of any Polynesian party, is a pupu platter. It is piled high with baby pork ribs, shrimp and pineapple skewers, glazed chicken wings, pot stickers, and tropical fruit.

End the evening with macadamia cookies and Baked Hawaii. Never heard of this dessert? Think when baked Alaska travels to the South Seas, it takes on the shape of a volcano. Slice into the mountain of toasted meringue to reveal “volcanic soil” (chocolate cookie crumbs) topped with five layers of tropical sorbet — try mango, pineapple, coconut, banana, and passion fruit, or the flavors of your choice. It is delicious, and your guests will love the unique dessert.