Throwing a backyard party is an amazing way to get friends, family and even co-workers together for a fun day or night. The problem is that organizing one and actually doing the planning isn’t always so fun.
While you may need to roll up your sleeves and do some real planning, you can throw an excellent outdoor party without stressing yourself out too much. Use these tips to help you do it.
Invite Guests Early
A backyard party without guests isn’t very much fun, but if you don’t invite people early, that’s very well what you might have. The fact is that adults have busy schedules, and even if they want to attend your party, they may have to juggle some things just to get there.
Plan parties at least two weeks in advance. Even the most casual affairs often require planning for adults with jobs and kids.
Get a Head Count
Without an early head count you’re not going to have any idea what to buy for your party. Are five people coming or are 50 going to show up last minute when the food is all gone?
Get your head count at least a week in advance. That way you can plan the party properly and ensure that guests actually have a good time.
Shop in Advance
One of the worst things you can do when having a backyard party is to run out of food. A close second is spending excessively on food because you did not take advantage of specials and sales in your area.
If you know you are having a party in a month, go ahead and look around for special deals. Buying cases of soda or beer? Why not buy them when they are on sale?
The same idea applies to buying in bulk or making trips to stores you know are cheaper that just are not as close. Do not kick yourself when the party is over and you check your bank balance.
Don’t Forget the Games
Most people come to backyard parties for the food and friendship, but games can make an afternoon or evening more exciting. Whatever you like, game paraphernalia like cornhole boards, horseshoes and even a football or two can make the party a whole lot more fun.
Just make sure you put games in a separate area away from the grill.