Summer Spa Party

A spa day might rejuvenate the spirit, but the body needs recharging, too. Keep things light and lively with crab salad, stuffed tomatoes, and mango salsa. Champagne cocktails will smooth away any remaining rough edges.

Crab Salad: Spoil yourselves silly with this sumptuous seafood salad.

Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes: Luscious little tomato shrimp bites won't mess up your manicure.

Mango Papaya Salsa: Tasty and good for you too!

The Champagne Cocktail: You'll feel so girly after your spa day, even the cocktails will blush.

• The Plan--You can pool your money and hire a mobile spa service to show up with massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures; or you can pool your talents and do it yourselves. If you go the DIY route, ask friends to each bring a fresh batch of a favorite treatment product to try out (homemade avocado facial mask perhaps?) or maybe you can host a group makeup demonstration. The dress code? Comfy robes and slippers, of course!
• The Tips--Clear the clutter because a serene space is calming, but do splurge a little on flowers and candles for a luxurious vibe. If you're hiring a mobile spa service, consider setting up the massage table(s) in a separate room for the privacy factor. If you're trying out facial products, be smart and test them on the inside of your elbow to make sure your skin doesn't react. Practice good hygiene, especially when trying on makeup: use only new products and supply plenty of disposable applicators.
• The Swag--Set up a sugar scrub buffet so your friends can personalize a take-home spa treatment. Each single-serving scrub takes 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and a few drops of essential oil in the fragrance of your choice. Try lavender or rosemary for relaxation, peppermint or orange for a refreshing lift, sandalwood for sex appeal, and so on. Consult an aromatherapy specialist for recommendations. Supply plenty of jars, mixing spoons, and labels. To use scrubs at home, gently rub into clean damp skin to exfoliate and invigorate. Rinse clean and follow with moisturizer.