PARTY UP!
Whether you're hosting a party of friends, family, neighbours or work associates, entertaining outside is fun, different and exciting.
However, one of those balmy evenings of hanging out and relaxation could be ruined if it rains. Sandra French, Managing Director at Absolute Party Company, encourages you to always have a backup plan in case the weather doesn't cooperate.
French stated that when planning such fun, the first thing to do is to establish the amount of persons attending the function. This, she said will save you from running the risk of not catering for everyone.
TIPS TO HOSTING YOUR OUTDOOR PARTY · Establish a theme. This will provide focus and pull together all the aspects of your party · Give advance notice to guest · Make sure tables and chairs are provided if you will be making reservation. · Establish the tone when you are setting the table. For a buffet style party put plate, water and wine glasses along with cutleries on table. If a waiter/ waitress will serve guest they should be seated the moment they are served. · Put up decorations in keeping with the theme. Use crisp linens and fresh flowers for an elegant luncheon party and seashells for a beach party. · Find a suitable venue. Make reservations well in advance for national parks and other grounds, especially for major holidays. · Make your guests comfortable. Keeping age and ability in mind · Bring on the fun with games, such as volleyball, board games and competitions. · Turn up the tunes by hiring a musician, or provide plenty of CDs and a boom box. · For a day event, find a spot for the table with the right mix of sun and shade, sheltered from the wind if possible. · Create shade in open areas by pitching tents. · Light up the party if it goes into the evening. String lights from trees to create a festive glow at a park. · Get permission and security from the police if needed. Depending on the type of party get permission from parish council as well. · Inform the neighbours about the party. · Make sure there is adequate parking space. · Have a bar and catering service to serve the guest so that they will feel comfortable. · Call party companies and book the required equipment. Example popcorn machine, bounce about and catering service.
Outdoor party food for kids include jerk chicken, sandwiches, popcorn, finger food, fruits and vegetables.
PLANNING THE PARTY · Create a planning committee (as well as subcommittees in charge of food, activities, clean-up, publicity and decorations.) · Allow anywhere from 8 weeks to 3 months to plan the event. · Set up a meeting to discuss theme ideas, dates, food, entertainment and costs. · Depending on the type of party call the local police department to get permission. · If it's a fundraising party create appealing flyers announcing the date and details of the party - hand deliver to your neighbours. · For a friendly party, create small invitations to invite selected persons · Create icebreakers to help get guests to mingle. · Take suggestions for contest of which you could give prizes for the top three winners. · Have a host or moderator for your event. · Plan for music.