As the old saying goes, “the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” That is often the case when you are planning an outdoor party. Even when you have planned everything for the even down to the right lawn furniture, Mother Nature can swoop in and ruin everything with an unexpected summer storm. But, a bit of summer rain does not need to be the end of everyone’s good time. With just a little bit of forethought and preparation, you can ride the rainstorm and still throw a fabulous outdoor party. Beat any storm with our outdoor party rain solutions below.
Party tent
One way to keep the party outside in inclement weather is to erect a large party tent. Tents are a great option to keep the rain off, and if the rain stays away, people can still congregate under it and keep out of the way of the hot sun. Be sure to have a tent that is large enough to accommodate all of your guests, and also make allowances for chairs and have someplace to put the food and drinks.
The garage
If you cannot budget for a large tent, HGTV.com suggests using the garage as another great option for keeping party guests dry. When you see your garage as an extension of your living area rather than just a carport, you open up many options. Keep track of the weather a few days leading up to the party, if there is a chance of rain, take some time to clean up the garage. If there are any areas that are particularly dirty, throw down a tarp or some blankets to hide them. When you keep the garage as an option to hold the party, you can have the party remain outside as long as possible, and herd everyone there, if the weather dictates.
Game time
Back-up plans can often be lifesavers. If the weather is so bad that finding shelter under a tent or in a garage is not sufficient, it might be best to move the festivities inside. Be prepared for this last-minute change by having some indoor games or other activities ready for them. If you are throwing a party for kids, board games or age-appropriate movies are a great idea. If the party is for adults have some trivia games or parlor games ready to pass the time.
The food
Often outdoor parties feature food made on a barbecue grill. If you are planning to grill out for your party be sure to place the grill in a covered or sheltered area. That way, the rain will not douse the fire that is needed for cooking. If you do not have a sheltered area that will work, have some food that can be quickly prepared indoors. Pre-made casseroles, finger sandwiches, and slow cooker recipes are great options that can be used regardless of the weather.
Umbrellas
If the forecast is calling for rain and you are intent on having your party outdoors, Catersource.com suggests having umbrellas ready for your guests. This trick is especially handy even if it is just to help escort guests inside the house, particularly if it is a more formal affair. Umbrellas can help protect your guests from the sun as well, so it is a good idea to always have some extra umbrellas at the ready.
Use your mudroom
Put your mudroom or back hallway to use during wet-weather parties. Set up an out-of-the-way area for guests to leave their shoes, wet coats, umbrellas, and anything else that has gotten wet from being outside. Be sure to have a decorative coat rack and other adornments that will assist your guests with the transition of moving from the wet outdoors to the coziness of the house.
Decorate appropriately
Rain can often be an uninvited guest at a party because it can ruin decorations and adornments. Having decorations and using furniture that can withstand the bad weather helps to make sure nothing gets destroyed. Forgo using cushioned chairs in the rain, as they might get ruined by the excessive dampness. Try to use tables and chairs that have wide and sturdy legs that will not sink into the soft ground. Also, be sure to use flameless candles and anchor everything down in anticipation of strong winds that often accompany rain storms. Throwing outdoor parties is one of the best parts of the summer. Do not let a rain storm ruin your good time. Although you cannot fool Mother Nature, you can easily plan for the worst she has to offer. Planning ahead and having a contingency plan can help you win out when the weather turns sour.
Design Furnishings can help you be prepared for rain during your outdoor party. Our outdoor furniture is sturdy and built to withstand the worst Mother Nature has to offer. Contact us today to see what we have to offer.