How to plan the perfect celebration, despite the weather
One of the best things about great summer weather is gathering with
friends and family to share food and fun under the sun. At least, that's
the plan. But as we know, the weather doesn't always make the
perfect guest at a party. In spite of your planning, the day may turn
fickle and suddenly you're faced with rain, wind or even soaring
temperatures. While you can't control Mother Nature, there are ways
to prevent weather from ruining your special event. Here are some tips
for weather-proofing your party.
Choose a theme
No matter what the weather, choose a theme for your outdoor party
and decorate accordingly. Popular summer themes include a Garden
Party, Pool Party, Beach Party, Neighborhood Block Party, Barbeque,
Tailgate Party, or Fourth of July celebration.
Decorate strategically
Next, gather the decorations, but don't actually decorate until day of
the party. Because the weather could change overnight, prepare
portable decorating items that can be moved indoors quickly. Helium-inflated
balloons make the best decorations, as they add color, cheer
and atmosphere to any party theme. If you use a Balloon Time Helium
Balloon Kit, you can decorate quickly and easily at the last minute -
indoors or out. Then add other touches related to your theme, such as
potted flowers for a Garden Party, beach balls for a Pool or Beach
Party, or American flags for a Fourth of July Party.
Think ahead
Here are some additional solutions for weather concerns:
- Set an alternate "Rain Location" on the invitation to alert guests to a
possible change of venue.
- Reserve an indoor location as a backup, in case you need to move
your party inside. Ask if you can pay a deposit so you don't have to
lose the entire amount for the reservation.
- Invite only as many guests as you can comfortably entertain inside
your house in case you need to move inside at the last minute.
- Rent a tent or canopy - it adds fun, elegance and drama to your
party, even in good weather. And it makes great protection if the
temperatures soar.
- Rent heaters or fans to keep the guests warm if the weather is cool -
and keep them cool if it gets too hot.
- Rent individual umbrellas or parasols for fun and protection.
- Go back in time and check the calendar, to see what your odds are
for a good weather day. Then play the odds!
- Be sure to weigh or tie down decorations if the day turns windy.
No matter what the weather, your guests will have a great time if
you're prepared ahead of time!
Penny Warner has more than 25 years of experience as an author
and party planner. She has published more than 50 books, including 16
specific to parties. Additionally, Warner writes a weekly newspaper
column on family life, penned a column for Sesame Street Parents
magazine and has appeared on several regional and national TV morning
programs. Her latest book, HOW TO HOST A KILLER PARTY, debuted in
February 2010 from NAL/Penguin.