Ideas to Incorporate While Planning an Outdoor Event
By Brian Finn | Marketing Advisor, Unique Venues
As states and provinces have reopened amidst the pandemic, wedding and event planners have been working overtime to come up with creative ways to allow for the show to go on. Many locations continue to play it safe allowing only 50-100 guests at a time which is throwing a wrench into plans that have been on the books for sometimes over a year in advance. One option planners and couples are turning to is the tried and true Outdoor Event. With fresh air and of course more all-around airflow, guests can safely space out while still feeling part of an intimate event.
While moving outside may have been Plan B or C, and outdoor event can be a great experience. Depending on your location, many outdoor spaces offer natural backdrops practically eliminating the need for decorations. But with mother nature there are many things to consider, so we have assembled a checklist of both fun and practical ideas to consider to make your next outdoor event a success.
UNDER THE BIG TOP
Why even risk it? While we all can picture the perfect day under blue skies, even the slightest bit of rain, wind or extreme temperature can ruin the party. Tents have come a long way over the last 20 years and are more than just the tacky canvas structure you might be remembering. Even if you prefer to avoid using one, build this option into your budget and make the decision once you get a clear sense of the forecast. Depending on the space available to you, multiple smaller tents can help separate the crowd to accommodate both social distancing and help with the flow of an event.
REIMAGINE YOUR GIVEAWAYS
The last thing a guest might think of as they head to an outdoor event is sunscreen, but it will be the first thing they wish they had as they bake outdoors. Having individual bottles of SPF handy with your custom label will surely save the day. As guests arrive you can also offer themed items such as bug spray, sunglasses, parasol’s or even blankets if you are in a cold weather setting.
DANCING SHOES
Being outside is no excuse to ditch the chicken dance. Drop a hardwood dance floor under the tent or the stars and keep the party moving. A nice touch can be offering flip flops nearby for patrons who prefer to ditch the heels while dancing but don’t want to walk around the grounds barefoot.
CASUAL SEATING
Depending on your setting, being outside offers you the chance to set seating in a variety of imaginative ways. Instead of just offering the traditional rounds, don’t be afraid to set up lounge spots with adirondack chairs or benches across the grounds. A well placed fire pit can offer a rustic feel for gathering and even roasting s’mores.
USE NATURE’S BACKDROP
Portable photo booths have become quite popular over the last decade, but are probably not an option for an outdoor event. Use your surroundings to set up the perfect backdrops for photos. Vintage frames can be hung on walls or fences and wood backdrops can be lit and decorated in a variety of ways. Take the time to look around you and let your imagination run wild.
Whether an outside venue is Plan A, B or C get started today on finding the perfect location with Unique Venues.