We’re springing into the warmer months, ready to get outside, enjoy the beautiful sunshine, and—of course—have some FUN! This time of year is perfect for embracing your inner hostess or host outdoors. From barbeques to block parties to after-grad celebrations to any other occasion, here are some outdoor party planning tips to help you make your next event tons of fun. Let’s get you ready to get outside!
1. Put Together a Delicious Spread
Cater to your guests with a full spread of delicious hors d’oeuvres that everyone will enjoy, including the little ones and those with dietary needs! It doesn’t have to be complicated. For outdoor entertaining, a vegetable tray with dips, a make-your-own-sandwich spread or a fruit tray are all big hits. Don’t forget to offer a few items for guests with dietary restrictions — a gluten-free item and a dairy-free dish makes sure there’s something for everyone. And make sure everyone stays hydrated with plenty of beverages.
Looking for a way to make the food extra fun and playful? Try one of these fairground-esque concessions:
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- Add some fluff and flair with flavored cotton candy
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- Keep it classic with movie theater-style popcorn
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- Cool off on an extra hot day with this colorful sno-cone machine
2. Make it Comfortable
Have you ever been to a party where there wasn’t enough seating? Or struggled to find somewhere to set your plate and cup, meaning you had to awkwardly juggle the two and try to eat at the same time? We’ve been there!
Don’t put your guests through that pain! Set up plenty of tables and chairs for your guests to rest their feet, store their belongings, and eat. (While you’re at it, make sure to have extra plates, cups, napkins and cutlery available just in case!)
3. Be Prepared for Anything
Murphy’s Law tells us anything that can go wrong will go wrong. While it may sound pessimistic, it’s a good idea to keep in mind while planning your party. Expect the unexpected! Think of everything that could possibly go wrong and come up with a contingency plan or plan of action to address the micro-crises as they occur. Then you’re not left scrambling if something does go wrong in the middle of your party. When it comes to outdoor party planning, there are some things you can do to be prepared.
Are the clouds raining on your parade (or party, as the case may be)? Not a problem if you have a big tent so your guests can run for cover or an indoor/outdoor venue to help you with the unpredictable Missouri and Kansas weather.
Is the wind blowing up your carefully set up party? Tie tablecloths to the tables or rent weighted tablecloths that won’t get caught up in the wind. Instead of using lightweight disposable dinnerware, rent the real deal: ceramic and glass are a lot heavier, thus less likely to blow away. Bonus: you’re saving the trees.
Are uninvited guests BUGGING you (pun intended)? Set up a station with insect repellent spray, bracelets, and stickers to protect your guests from insect invaders. While you’re at it, throw in a few bottles of sunscreen for anyone who forgot to pre-apply!
Clean-up on aisle three? Have cleaning supplies on hand for any spills or clumsy mishaps that are bound to happen. This includes a lot of trash bags and paper towels.
Did a child trip climbing out of the bounce house and scrape their knee? Good thing you have a fully-stocked first aid kit ready to treat their wound!
4. Keep Your Guests Entertained
Food is great, but when the bellies are full will your guests want to leave and take a nap or stay and have some fun? If you want the latter to happen, you need to give them a reason to stick around. Food and people aren’t all it takes to make a party; you need activities and games to keep all ages having a ball until midnight (or…whenever the party ends).
Brainstorm some fun icebreaker games or even rent a few fan-favorite carnival or casino games your guests can play! Here are some of our top picks if you’re looking for fun games that can double as themed decor:
Speaking of themes, entertainment is a great place to really go all in on a theme and get creative! Our personal favorite? Casino night.
5. Incorporate Fun for All Ages
Unless you’re planning an outdoor party for an adults-only celebration, think about the age range on your guest list. If you’ll have a few kids or teens, feature some fun activities especially for them! This will not only make the younger attendees feel included and give them something fun, but it will give parents the freedom to relax and enjoy the company of their friends!
Here are a few inflatable party must-haves that are sure to excite your guests (be warned, though—the adults might decide to get in on it too):
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- Race to the finish in the X Factor Obstacle Course
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- Engage the little ones in a bouncing good time with the Lego Combo
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- Slide on in with the Dual Wave Wet/Dry Slide
Ready for Fun in the Sun?
Rain, sleet, snow, or hail, Fun Services Midwest has everything you need for the outdoor party planning of the century! Give us a call to tell us more about your party and get a quote on everything you’ll need for a good time in Kansas City or St. Louis.
