When most people think of hosting an outdoor event, they probably imagine a beautiful summer evening. However, the reality is that many things can be unpredictable such as weather, lighting, guests’ accommodating space, and more that may ruin your event. However, with a little planning and preparation, you can throw a successful outdoor event that everyone will enjoy.
In this article, we’re going to share some practical tips to make your next event successful, no matter it’s a corporate function or a music festival. You’ll learn how to optimize an event and make your guests happy. Let’s dive in!
Prepare for the Weather
Though the weather is something that you can’t resist, why not do something that caters to the different weather conditions?
First of all, let your guest know of the weather so they may come prepared accordingly. Tell them your event is rain or shine. Moreover, make sure to choose the right fabric to accommodate the varying weather conditions.
You can use fabric buildings to protect your guests from rain or sun. These tents act as a lifesaver option for you in hot or even colder months. In summers, these tents can be deployed as a source of shade for guests. In the winter season, their packed walls and hard fabric resist the icy and shivering winds from guests.
If you are planning an event during the winter, then make sure that you have enough space heaters to keep everyone comfortable.
Choose the Right Venue
One of the most important aspects of throwing a successful outdoor event is choosing the right location. You’ll want to pick a spot that is large enough to accommodate your guests and has easy access to parking and public transportation. If you would like to serve food, ensure there is a kitchen nearby for your convenience.
If you’re not sure where to start, try reaching out to your local chamber of commerce or event venue for recommendations.
Plan Ahead
Proper planning is essential for any event, but it’s especially important for outdoor events where there are more variables to consider. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to secure permits, book vendors, and promote your event.
As you’re planning, be sure to create a detailed timeline and budget so that you can stay on track and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Whether you’re hosting a corporate event or a casual get-together, you’ll want to create a comfortable environment for your guests. This means having enough seating and providing adequate shade and lighting.
If you’re serving food, be sure to have plenty of options for guests with dietary restrictions, and don’t forget to provide non-alcoholic beverages for those who don’t drink alcohol.
Lighting
If the event’s lighting is poor, chances are it may fade away the excitement of your guests. Creating the perfect lighting for an outdoor event can be tricky, but it’s worth taking the time to get it right.
String lights are a popular option for outdoor events, but you’ll also want to consider lanterns, spotlights, and even candles. They add a subtle hint of oomph that helps lift the overall decor of the event.
Be sure to test your lighting setup before the event to make sure everything is working properly. Also, keep the external factor of natural light in mind when planning the lighting setup. At the end of the day, your goal should be to have fun and enjoy yourself. If you’re feeling stressed, take a step back and remind yourself of why you’re hosting the event in the first place.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
While you hope that everything will go according to plan, it’s important to be prepared for emergencies. Make sure you have a first-aid kit on hand, as well as a backup generator in case of a power outage.
It’s also a good idea to have a plan in place for inclement weather, such as having a designated area for guests to take shelter.
Hire Professionals
While you may be tempted to DIY your event, hiring professionals can save you time and money in the long run. From catering to entertainment, there are a lot of moving parts to an outdoor event, so it’s important to have a team of experts to help you with the logistics.
Not only will they be able to take care of all the details, but they’ll also troubleshoot any unwanted problems that may happen during the event. It’s highly recommended to do the needed research to analyze their work experiences and what you can expect from them before hiring a professional.
