Summer is almost here! We’re finally heading outside to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine after another long winter, and it’s time to celebrate.
Maybe you’re throwing a graduation party or hosting family for Father’s Day. Or maybe, gathering with friends you haven’t seen in a while. Whatever your plans are this season, an outdoor party is a great way to do it — and we’ve got you covered.
Make planning that outdoor event a cinch with our ultimate backyard party checklist.
✔ Clean up the backyard
The first step of throwing the ultimate outdoor party? Preparing your backyard for your guests! Cut the grass and freshen the flowerbeds. Power wash your deck, patio, and sidewalks. Clean your grill. Take inventory of your outdoor furniture and clean it too, if necessary.
✔ Decorate the space
Now that your backyard is clean, you’re ready to decorate. Whether or not your party has a theme, decorations help take it to the next level. Add ambiance with bistro lights, lanterns, and solar powered lights for stairs and walkways.
While you’re at it, make sure you have enough tables and chairs for your guests. Cushions, swings, and hammocks count, too! Arrange all the furniture so guests can move easily around your yard.
✔ Beat the heat
Check the weather forecast as the day of your party approaches. If it’s going to be hot, make a plan to help keep guests cool and comfortable. Use umbrellas to create shade and set up oscillating fans to keep air moving and keep mosquitos at bay.
✔ Prep the perfect menu
Outdoor parties call for picnic staples. Think burgers, hot dogs, potato salads, and chips. Calculate how much food you really need to make for the number of guests you’re expecting.
Once you have the menu planned, decide how you’ll serve it. Make sure you get enough ice to keep cold foods cold and have a plan to keep hot foods hot.
✔ Stock the fridge (and freezer)
No party is complete without the beverages to keep it going. Beer, wine coolers, and frozen cocktails are all popular options. Don’t forget to include plenty of water and other non-alcoholic options. For a cool treat, stock popsicles and ice cream in the freezer for guests, too.
✔ Set the mood with music
Choose the tunes before your guests arrive to create the right party atmosphere. Put your outdoor audio system to use or set up a Bluetooth speaker. If you’re using a powerful audio system, be sure to place speakers at the back of your yard and turn them toward your house to cut down on noise that could disturb your neighbors.
✔ Get the games going
Everyone loves outdoor games. Set up a classic like corn hole or horseshoes, or go big with giant Jenga or Connect Four. If kids are on the guest list, consider getting an inflatable slide or bouncy castle to keep them busy for hours.
✔ Have a rain plan
Hopefully the weather forecast looks good for your outdoor party, but summer storms can blow up quickly. Be prepared to move guests and food into your garage or your house to keep the party rolling despite the weather.
Is it time for a backyard overhaul?
If you love entertaining family and friends, your backyard probably gets lots of use in the summer months. Our backyard party checklist can get the fun started, and a custom outdoor living space could keep it going.
At Hamilton Homes, we love working with clients to turn houses into your dream homes — inside and out. Our team has experience designing and building the ultimate outdoor lounge and party spaces, including:
- Cabanas
- Decks and patios
- Firepit
- Outdoor kitchens
- Outdoor living rooms
- Pools
We’re here to help you maximize your space and create the perfect backyard oasis. Schedule a consultation with our design team at Hamilton Homes to get your outdoor living project started this season.
