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Don’t put away all your summer decorations and party favors just yet!

Lifestyle Expert JJ Keras is here to show us how to use your leftover summer items for one last Labor Day bash.

The temps are slowly starting to cool and the kids are headed back to school…but there’s still time for one last summer shindig.

But take the “labor” out of your Labor Day festivities by repurposing and reusing some of your favorite summer items for effortless entertaining.

JJ 1photo credit: www.thekitchn.com

Sangria Bar

Not only is sangria is always a refreshing crowd-pleaser, but it’s an easy make-ahead item as well.

While everyone has their favorite variation, as long as you have the main components, wine + fruit, you pretty much can’t go wrong!

Pick up the last of your favorite summer fruits from your local farmer’s market to create these tasty variations–a crisp white peach version HERE and a berry-infused version HERE.

JJ 2photo credit: www.potterybarn.com

JJ 3photo credit: www.potterybarn.com

Galvanized Pails

You just can never have enough of these galvanized containers!

Whether you are looking to corral the condiments or use as serving trays, these versatile pieces fit seamlessly into any party scheme.

Larger tubs can be used to ice down beverage or hold beach towels and smaller containers are perfect for organizing utensils, napkins or straws.

Or use a mid-sized container with flowers as a casual centerpiece.

When not in entertaining use, re-purpose them for pantry and closet organization.

The possibilities are truly endless!

Stylish choices available from Pottery Barn HERE and HERE.

JJ 4photo credit: http://blog.hayneedle.com

Creative Containers

If you are on the hunt for a creative container for a centerpiece, why not repurpose a vintage pitcher?

They’re not just for lemonade after all!

Just add some seasonal wildflowers to the pitcher for a casually charming style that fits perfectly with the laid-back summer vibes.

We love this monochromatic grouping found HERE.

JJ 5www.sipnoodle.com

Sip-N-Oodle

There’s still some time to squeeze in a few more pool parties, and the Sip-N-Ooodle is guaranteed to make it a blast!

We’re all familiar with the traditional, basic pool noodle, but this new creation take it to the next level…it’s a flotation device AND a personal cooler all in one!

The Sip-N-Ooodle holds 22oz of your favorite drink, without spilling and without letting lake/pool water in.

And when pool season is over, they work for the hot tub too!

These are just plain fun and hilarious: purchase HERE for $19.99

JJ 6www.heymosaic.com

HeyMosaic Photo Books

Most of us take photos like crazy on our phone…but there they live in digital no man’s land.

Change that NOW and create a Mosaic Photo Book!

Re-live your favorite summer memories and have the photos printed in photo books for everyone enjoy; how fun would it be to have a few of these floating around your party!

These books are super simple to make: just download the app, choose photos directly from your smartphone, and a beautifully packaged, classy photo book will arrive in a few days.

They are thoughtful, personal and make a perfect gift…and can be completed while sitting on your couch!

Photobooks HERE

Happy Entertaining!

-JJ