How to Host a DIY Spa Party

Gather your best girls and get ready to relax! We've planned a do-it-yourself spa day complete with homemade treatments, fresh fare, and of course, cocktails.

A beauty bar complete with pamper-yourself essentials like nail polish, flowers, and homemade salt scrubs is the heart of the party. Be sure to include plenty of relaxing spa-scented candles ($5, Target); they set the mood for an ultra-relaxing day.

Set out coordinating poufs and fluffy throw pillows ($10, Target) for easy, breezy seating. Toss in a few comfy throw blankets ($9, Walmart) so your guests feel comfortable and extra cozy.

Cheerful bouquets brighten up your space with color and fragrance. We choose a happy mix of peonies, ranunculus, succulents, and sweet-smelling eucalyptus. Dim the lights and let candles create a relaxing amber glow.

Add a few flower petals to homemade softening hand and foot soaks for an extra touch of "aah." We opted for inexpensive blooms like carnations and daisies.

Put together a DIY scrub and butter station where guests can help themselves to homemade pampering products. Stock it with spoons, pretty glass jars ($18 for 12, Target), and essential oils, so each person can fill their own jar. Guests can use the scrubs and butters during the party, then take the leftovers home as a party favor.

This body butter is ultra-luscious thanks to a blend of almond and coconut oil. Make a big batch of unscented butter (we've got an easy recipe for it!) then give guests the chance to customize their own jar with a variety of essential oils ($15 for six blends, Walmart).

It wouldn't be a spa party without an invigorating sea salt scrub. Raw sugar ($3, Walmart) gives this blend coarse texture, while essential oils add sweet scents. Use our easy recipe to make a large batch in an oversize glass jar ($13, Walmart) so guests can help themselves.

A skin-softening blend of French green clay, epsom salts ($4, Target), and baking soda is the perfect start to DIY manicures. You can find French green clay ($8, Bulk Apothecary) online or at health food stores.

Skip the salon and get polishing! Take turns giving each other at-home manicures using a set of different color nail polishes ($10 for 10, Target). Keep polish remover and towels on-hand for quick touch-ups.

Hydrate with refreshing infused waters and healthy juices. Try a blend of cucumber, lime, or fresh floral flowers (we used pesticide-free roses). Add pitchers of green juices and fresh-squeezed drinks to a gold and wood bar cart ($150, Target) for the ultimate refreshment station.

Spa time is cocktail time. Whip up a couple signature drinks like our Ginger-Peach Bellini and Herbed Blackberries on the Rocks. We served them on a tray decorated with cut succulents.

Purchased pesto and a two-step technique mean these sweet tomato bites are a low-stress recipe to make. Be sure to look for large basil leaves for effortless assembly.

Grab-and-go bites mean plenty of time for relaxation. Roll up a batch of spring rolls with shrimp and veggies, and serve them with our herby chimichurri sauce.

Keep things light and easy with a refreshing sweet and savory salad. A ginger-honey dressing soaks quinoa, dried fruit, and lettuce with maximum flavor. Top with chopped cashews for crunch.

Make this zesty chicken salad ahead of time for hands-off hosting. To serve, scoop into corn or flour tortillas and top with fresh cilantro, chili powder, and red onion.

An overnight freeze time is all it takes to whip up this ruby red dessert. Simply blend fresh berries, lemon, sugar, and mint, then freeze. A squeeze of fresh lime brings the whole dessert together.

Faceted gemstone soaps are the perfect spa day party favor. Whip up a big batch ahead of time, then set out for day-of gifting. No need for fancy molds or ingredients—all it takes is a loaf pan ($8, Target) and three ingredients.