The Summer I Turned Pretty is having a moment. It’s capturing the hearts of viewers of all ages, and it isn’t just because of the dramatic love triangle. It’s the nostalgia of summer traditions, late-night conversations, lifelong friendships, and the beautiful backdrop of Cousins Beach. That same spirit makes it the perfect inspiration for your next book club gathering.
By blending the warmth of a beachside summer with a dash of Jenny Han-inspired drama, you can turn an ordinary night of discussion into a themed event filled with fun, food, and unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re Team Conrad or Team Jeremiah (or Team Belly with no one), here is how to host a book club party that will take your guests on a trip straight to Cousins Beach.
Set the Scene with Coastal Cousins Beach Vibes
Though TSITP was actually shot in Wilmington, North Carolina, Cousins Beach is located in Massachusetts in the show, inspired by Cape Cod. Create those vibes with décor and details that feel both effortless and intentional.
- Décor inspiration: Sand-colored tablecloths, seashell centerpieces, and string lights draped across a backyard patio. Add cozy blankets or throws to mimic those iconic beach bonfire scenes. Have a pool? Score some cute pool loungers and host the party while you float.
- Venue ideas: Don’t have a backyard? Book a rooftop lounge, a poolside rental, or a private room with plenty of natural light to capture that seaside glow.
- Soundtrack: Set the mood with a playlist inspired by the show. Think Taylor Swift ballads, indie summer anthems, and nostalgic throwback pop hits. Or, let the summer at cousins beach Spotify playlist do all the work.
Create a Character-Inspired Menu
No book club is complete without food and drinks — and this is where you can really lean into the theme.
- Signature drinks:
- Team Jeremiah: The Belly Fizz – a “next-level version” of a Tequila Soda.
- Team Belly: Pomegranate Margaritas as a nod to the 4th of July episode in the first season.
- Team Conrad: A classic martini or some domestic beers. He’s a simple and timeless kind of guy.
- Food ideas: Serve lobster rolls, fresh summer salads, and grilled corn for a beachside vibe. For dessert, ice cream sandwiches or mini fruit tarts nod to sweet summer indulgences. You can also throw in some Sour Patch Kids… Belly’s favorite gas station treat.
- DIY fun: Set up a snow cone or popsicle bar where guests can create their own frozen treats. It’s interactive, nostalgic, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Prep Those Party Games
While discussion is an important part of a book club party, so is keeping the energy light and fun. Incorporate a few activities that go beyond page-by-page analysis.
- Trivia: Prepare a list of questions from both the books and the series. Divide guests into teams and award small prizes like bookmarks, shell necklaces, or themed candles.
- Who’s Who quiz: Create a short personality quiz that matches guests to characters. Are they a reserved Conrad, a lively Jeremiah, or a romantic Belly?
- Watch party: Queue up a couple of episodes after your discussion to see how the story translates from page to screen. Bonus points if you pair snacks to specific scenes.
Beachy Chic Dress Code with a Touch of Drama
Fashion is another fun way to tie the theme together. Encourage guests to dress “beach chic” with sundresses, linen shirts and pants, and sandals. If you want to add a playful twist, provide flower crowns or seashell necklaces at the door. A dress code certainly makes for great photos, but it also creates a vibe that will help guests drop right into the story.
Send Guests Home with a TSITP Party Favor
A book club night is all about connection, but giving your guests a small keepsake ensures the memories last long after the last page is discussed.
- DIY bookmarks: Print or handcraft bookmarks with quotes from the trilogy. Add a tassel or seashell charm for a special touch.
- Photo corner: Set up a “Cousins Beach” photo backdrop with props like beach balls, sunglasses, and flower crowns. Share the photos afterward as a digital album.
- Take-home treats: Package mini jars of saltwater taffy or berry-scented candles to tie into the show’s coastal nostalgia.
Choose Your Next Series
One of the best parts of a themed book club party is how easy it is to keep the tradition going. Try rotating themes with the seasons. Maybe Bridgerton in the spring for Regency garden party vibes. Twilight in the fall for moody, Pacific Northwest energy. And To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, another Jenny Han classic, for cozy rom-com comfort in the winter. Choosing a series that has a television or movie series along with it can create a more engaging experience.
Conclusion: Embrace the Endless Summer Energy
At its heart, The Summer I Turned Pretty is about more than love triangles, beach houses, and New England charm. It’s about the friends who grow with us, the traditions that anchor us, and the summers we’ll never forget. Hosting a themed book club night is a chance to recreate that magic with your own circle… whether you’re sipping Team Conrad cocktails, debating if Belly should be with Jeremiah or Conrad, or just soaking in the joy of being together.
So grab your copy of the books, queue up the playlist, and gather your friends. Because this summer, your book club isn’t just about reading. It’s about making memories as pretty as Cousins Beach itself.
Kadi McDonald is a freelance writer, marketing strategist, and proud Cleveland sports fan.
