Planning backyard parties can be fun, but it usually comes with a little bit of stress. You have to think about invitations, decorations, food, party favors, a theme, and even activities. Considering having a live band at your party will make your party more fun, exciting, and memorable! A live band gives you just the right amount of flexibility, making your party one you and your guests will never forget. For a stress-free party, there are a few ideas to keep in mind when planning your outdoor event.
Your invitation can include a few things. Let everyone know approximately when the food will be served, and include what is appropriate to wear (flip flops, shorts, casual attire, etc.). Also, have a plan B for the possibility of inclement weather, and inform your guests what the rain plan is.
Yes, you’ll need to get your yard organized. Make sure the grass is mowed and free of any toys or debris. While you are beautifying your backyard, you’ll need some level ground for the dance floor and tables and chairs. Guests will need access to the inside of your house too. So, you don’t want to overlook the bathrooms and other areas guests may visit. Make sure you provide an area for guest parking. If you invite your neighbors, you might ask them if your guests can use their driveways to park if needed.
Be creative with lighting. Add strings of lights and lanterns for a special atmosphere. Different kinds of candles can be placed throughout your backyard space, and you can include citronella candles to help keep those mosquitos away. If you have the space to add a fire pit in the yard, this will always draw guests together for conversation and will help to keep the mosquitoes and pests away too. Make sure you have some insect repellent or bug towelettes handy.
Have plenty of seating. The seating doesn’t have to be the same. You can gather assorted lawn chairs, benches, and picnic tables, spread blankets on the grass and access your indoor chairs if necessary. Adding some side tables will provide your guests somewhere to put their drinks and snacks. Be sure to place trash receptacles in an easy-to-find area and away from the food stations.
Try to prepare as many foods in advance as possible. You’ll be glad you did. Organize your buffet area so that there is a variety of snacks such as, chips and salsa, veggies, meats, and some fruit and sweets. Have easy to grab cutlery in a napkin with plenty of paper plates. It is also a good idea to get ice ready days before your party instead of bringing bags of ice home from the grocery store the day of the party. Plan ahead and fill zip-top bags with ice from your freezer’s ice machine. Have several coolers available the day of the party for the beverages and drinks. Catering may be another option for your food and beverages.
What’s Hot Now?
BRIGHT HUES are now popular for your backyard party but not too many colors in one space! Stick with two hues. Use one dynamic color and then a splash of another bold color.
NEW THEMES: When planning your theme, think of your favorite summer hangouts or vacation spot. You can also call upon what you remember as a kid. Bring that specific memory into your theme. Even celebrating everyone’s birthday month is a special way to share guests’ celebrations.
WINE SMOOTHIES: Your guests will want and enjoy a cold and frosty drink. Go for a libation that’s a little out of the ordinary. Wine smoothies are cold & frosty. Garnished with your favorite fruit slice, a smoothie is not only refreshing, but it also looks great!
COFFEE & HOT CHOCOLATE BAR: If you are considering a morning backyard wedding or holiday event, then a coffee station is a must and is definitely “hot” now!
LIVE MUSIC sets the mood for that special party. Entertainment will make your backyard party totally off the charts. Atmosphere is everything! Choosing a live band can bring a variety of music styles and entertain your guests. The band will bring on the songs that people recognize and mix in some newer tunes to keep your backyard party upbeat and fun! You can sit back and relax or share a few dance moves with your friends!
Pat Radtke
The Free Wheelin’ Band
Free Wheelin’ provides great live music by professional musicians, plays DJ cover tunes on band breaks, and makes celebrations and holiday events better! If you need a high energy party band to play all your favorite hits, look no further! For your special event call 850-559-9310.
