If you feel like your entertaining ideas could use a refresh, consider hosting a casual outdoor party. Outdoor parties are the perfect way to show off your backyard, patio or other outdoor space and enjoy the company of guests at the same time.
However, outdoor or backyard parties can bring their own unique challenges to prepare for. Long before your guests arrive, consider these important things when planning your party:
Entertaining at home often centers around serving food, and outdoor parties are no different - though they can have different challenges. Whether you serve all the food yourself or host a potluck, have options available for keeping dishes warm or cold outdoors. For hot food, this can be as simple as cooking in a crock pot or slow cooker.
You can also keep food warm in a cooler - just make sure it's a dedicated container for hot dishes! For cold food, a classic cooler or tray of ice will do the trick. Consider adding fun, decorative labels to easily differentiate.
What's the ideal mood for your backyard party? Think about your goals as well as your guest list. If children are coming to the party, have some games planned to keep their attention. For guests who prefer to relax and converse, have an area for quiet conversation separate from higher-energy party activities.
Seating is another major factor in any party that becomes even more important when you bring the fun outdoors. Having the right outdoor furniture can not only enhance the style of your space, but impact the comfort of your guests.
Make sure to provide enough seating for everyone you invite, plus a few extra dining chairs just in case. Provide shelter from the elements and promote conversation with thoughtful furniture layouts.
Whether you're planning a pool party, picnic or a quiet night around a fire pit, these reminders should help you prepare for the best possible outdoor event.
Terese Ferrara is a long-time resident of the Bay Area and has been a partner with the Goss | Ferrara Real Estate Team. She and her husband raised their two daughters in San Jose, where she successfully continues to build her real estate career.
After earning a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University, she went on to teach in the San Jose Unified School District for 9 years. Transitioning to real estate was a logical choice, utilizing her patient demeanor to educate all levels of buyers and sellers. Knowledge and experience demonstrate her vested interest in delivering the highest level of care and professionalism to every client. She consistently strives to exceed her client’s expectations throughout the entire real estate transaction and remains a trusted advisor long after each close.
As a board member on KW Bay Area Estates’ Associate Leadership Council (ALC), she aids in support of culture and professional development strategies for over 180 associates. Terese is also a Director for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors Foundation, which supports community service initiatives in Silicon Valley.
Terese is the consummate real estate professional dedicated to providing unparalleled service to her clients through ongoing training and education, keeping her on top of the dynamic market and latest real estate trends. Her high-touch approach coupled with honesty and integrity support her commitment to her client’s real estate needs.
