Planning an outdoor summer party can be a lot of fun, but it does require some advance planning. How much planning is entirely up to you, but we’ve put together some suggestions to help you start brainstorming about the kind of party you’d like to host this summer.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Choose a date and time.
Keep in mind that summer evenings can be pretty warm or cool depending on where you live, so consider starting your party earlier in the day. Something else to keep an eye on is the weather as you choose your date and time for your outdoor Summer party.
For example, if you live somewhere that has to deal with the occasional hurricane, then you’ll want to keep that in mind for your outdoor summer parties. If you live in Nashville, you will want to plan around the summer heat. It’s a good idea to always have a backup date and time just in case something comes up that forces you to cancel your plans.
2. Send out invitations.
Be sure to include all the critical details, such as the party’s date, time, and location. Invitations can be done in many ways these days, too, so there’s no reason not to invite people and get a headcount.
You can use social media platforms like Facebook to invite people to your various gatherings. Another service you can use is Evite, and it’s free to use for free events like outdoor summer parties. Don’t forget to send out reminders to RSVP, so you also know you’ve got enough food and other refreshments.
3. Choose a theme.
When you choose a theme, a fun summer party can really set the tone. Consider a pool party, beach party, or barbecue-themed bash. Don’t be afraid to get creative because summertime is generally accepted as the time to simply relax.
Of course, don’t feel pressured to always have a theme. Sometimes, it’s just about having friends get together and enjoy each other’s company. If it’s better for you to relax and plan less, don’t feel guilty about doing it. Outdoor summer parties are as varied as they come, so do what feels right for you and your crew.
4. Decorate your space.
Once you have your theme in mind, it’s time to start decorating. Use streamers, balloons, and other decorations to transform your space into a party paradise. You can also buy some cheap outdoor decorations at dollar stores.
For example, let’s say you’re doing a Hawaiian-style luau party. Grass skirts around your tables make great decorations for your outdoor Summer party. Stores like Dollar Tree have tons of items that will fit your theme, and you’ll keep more cash than you expected in the process.
Sometimes, it’s a better way to spend your money if you buy the dollar store items just because you won’t be as upset if you damage or break something, too. At outdoor summer parties, you never know what could happen, especially if there are kids involved.
5. Prepare the food.
No party is complete without the preparation of delicious food and drinks. Be sure to have a variety of options for your guests, including light snacks, main course dishes, and sweet desserts. Finger foods are a great option because they’re easy for you to prepare and even easier for your guests to enjoy.
Alternatively, you could always go potluck style and have everyone bring something to share. It gives everyone an opportunity to try foods that may be new to them. Who knows? You might find a new favorite that you’ll decide needs to make a regular appearance at future parties.
Potlucks result in people sharing some of their favorite foods and less overall cleanup for you. You’ll appreciate it at the end of the night because you’ll be exhausted from partying with your best buds.
6. Games and activities.
Games and activities are a great way to keep your guests entertained throughout the party. Consider setting up a croquet or badminton court or organizing a scavenger hunt or water balloon fight.
There are also tons of simple, free, and easy games you can find online, like Minute to Win It games. They’re silly and fun, and everyone is always up for a challenge. Who doesn’t like watching people try to pop a balloon by sitting on it?
If you’re more about low-key activities that don’t take as much prep, consider an outdoor movie with something as simple as a projector and a sheet that you can hang on your fence.
Projectors aren’t as expensive as they used to be, and they make for easy entertainment in your backyard. Pair it with a streaming service, and you’ve got the makings of an epic movie party!
7. Don’t forget the music.
Create a fun party playlist to get everyone in the dancing mood. Remember to consider your audience as you make a playlist. If you’ve got kids and adults of all ages, you may or may not want to bring out your favorite Beastie Boy tunes.
On the flip side, if you’re all adults and just out to throw back a few drinks, have a barbecue, and relax, it might be time to jam to the songs that you’d never play around kids. There’s no good reason not to have a playlist ready to go with services like Spotify or Amazon Music.
8. Prepare your yard.
If you’re hosting your party in your backyard, be sure to do a little bit of yard work beforehand to prepare your yard. Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and remove any debris that might be lying around.
If you’re feeling up for it, consider landscaping your yard, too, for that extra appeal. Keep in mind that landscaping is hard work, so if you need to hire a professional to do it for you, always plan ahead so they can put you on the schedule. If you wait until the last minute, there’s a good chance you won’t get on the schedule within your preferred timeframe.
You can always contact Nashville Area Turf Managers for assistance in prepping your yard and creating that perfect landscape you’ve always dreamed of. We’re always happy to keep your yard looking fantastic!
9. Be prepared for pests.
Unfortunately, summer parties often attract unwanted guests in the form of bugs and mosquitoes. Be sure to have a can of bug spray prepared to keep these pests at bay. Other fun outdoor options include citronella candles sitting on shared tables or natural deterrents like rosemary and mint.
For an extra dose of dazzling fun, consider tiki torches, too. You can find them at any hardware store or online. Add the right oil to them, and you’re set for a bug-free zone for the night. The mosquitoes might not be happy, but you’ll be thrilled.
If you’re struggling with getting those skeeters under control, consider hiring a professional like our team at Turf Managers. We’ll keep those pests in check, and your yard will be ready for the best summer parties!
10. Have fun!
The most important thing to remember when throwing a summer party is to have fun. Enjoy the company of your guests and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Pictures are a great way to commemorate the occasion. You could even have a photo backdrop with props for your guests to take pictures at their leisure. People love taking selfies, so having a selfie station is a perfect and fun addition to your outdoor summer party.
Wrapping It Up
Summer is a time for fun with family and friends, so even if you’re not all about the decorations and the extensive planning, you can still take a few of these tips and create opportunities for fantastic memories. Movies, games, and even water balloons can be enough to make an outdoor summer party feel festive.
Follow these tips, and you’re sure to throw a summer party that your guests will remember for years to come. And don’t forget, if you need help getting the yard and pests under control, Turf Managers is only a phone call or an email away!
