Nothing says summer like a stunning outside celebration, but if you’re looking to create something truly show-stopping this year we’re here to help. The secret to a successful summer event lies in the details. Here are 10 of our top tips to give your summer party the edge.
1. MAKE IT PERSONAL
Personal touches take any event to the next level. Think about your guests. What do they like? What are they interested in? Seamlessly tying in personal touches will show guests that you’ve thought about their day – make sure those place names and goodie bags are personalised!
2. INVITATIONS
Invitations are your first chance to grab guests’ attention, and get them excited about the big day. Unusual invitations are perfect if you’re looking to create a memorable summer party, but stay true to the theme of your event, it’ll give guests a taste of what to expect.
3. THE THEME
Whether you’re creating a fully themed summer extravaganza or a more low key dinner, the most successful events always make clever use of the key messages of the host’s brand. Think about coloured lighting to complement a brand identity, or creative touches which nod to key messages.
4. VENUE
Once your theme has been decided you need the right party venue – but that’s easier said than done! Creative summer events work best with blank canvas spaces, these really allow your imagination to run wild. Or if your theme is a more traditional one consider historic spaces for a more atmospheric twist. Of course if you haven’t quite found the perfect summer party venue for you Venueseeker are on hand to help and advise, we’ve got many a hidden gem up our sleeves!
5. WET WEATHER CONTINGENCY
Summer events in the sunshine are perfect, but this is the UK, so sadly we can’t always rely on the sun shining! Remember to make sure your venue has a wet weather contingency, whether that be inside space, a marquee in the grounds, or more creative measures like branded umbrellas or ponchos and wellies!
6. PRODUCTION
Production is key to the success of any great party. You’ll need a great sound system to create that all-important atmosphere, and clever lighting to complement your theme or branding.
7. MAKE IT A SENSORY EXPERIENCE
Push the boat out by creating an event which appeals to all the senses. Truly intriguing events are those which consider a multitude of ways to impress and inspire guests, and for that you’ll need to think about smell! Scents are often forgotten in the events world, but their addition can make for a mesmerising event. You could even create scented invitations to match.
8. SUMMER MENUS
The warmer months offer plenty of scope for creative menus. Barbecues are ideal for outdoor celebrations, but if you’re looking for something a little more unusual you could consider food stalls. These work brilliantly for outdoor events, and enable guests to mingle as they try a variety of different cuisines or dishes.
9. ENTERTAINMENT
So you’ve chosen your venue, picked out a theme and confirmed your guest list. Now it’s time to think about entertainment. With summer events the possibilities really are endless. If your party is more low key consider an outdoor band, or magician. Those with bigger budgets could employ the talents of acrobats, aerial artists and stilt walkers. You could even add fairground entertainment if your event is being held at The Artillery Garden, HAC.
10. KEEPSAKES
Give your guests something to remember the day by as they leave, it’ll ensure everyone talks about your event for a long time to come. Photo booths are always a popular choice, or you could create small gifts or goodie bags for guests to take away with them, filled with themed treats from the night.
