For the residents of Creekshaw, a master-planned community located in historic and charming Royse City, Texas, any time is the right time for entertaining friends, family members, book club members ,or an entire wedding reception! Located near Interstate 30/U.S. 67, a thoroughfare that runs through the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Creekshaw’s vibe is as cool as the other side of the pillow.
During the spring, early summer, and early fall, taking the shindig outside only multiplies the fun. However, before stringing up those lights, or firing up that big honkin’ grill, a few planning tips are in order for an event in the great outdoors.
Five Tips for Your Next Outdoor Party
Several professional party planners, featured in a very insightful and laugh-out-loud funny article waxed eloquent on the little things a host or hostess can do to make their next outdoor party the talk of the town.
It Starts with the Invitation
You have 25 people invited to your backyard, where backyards are almost always found – OUTSIDE. What could possibly go wrong? The weather, for one thing. The invitation should be clever, but specific. Is the party happening, rain or shine? Will the guests be served a 7- course meal or nibbles with drinks? Inquiring minds want to know.
Take the Elements into Consideration
Depending on the time of year, the guests (like the steaks) at an outdoor soiree can be medium or well-done. If the backyard blast is happening on a summer afternoon, experts suggest borrowing umbrellas from everyone in the zip code to block the sun! If it’s a beautiful fall evening event (and there’s nothing better than Royse City in the fall), it might turn a little chilly. Some light afghan wraps or scarves should be placed on the chairs to keep the party warm and toasty.
Creative Party Decor Is a Must
This is a tricky area, but the party planning experts in this article have a tip or two. “Interior designer Mark Eckstrom of Maison MxM, in Omaha, Neb., ticked off the elements of the most routine outside-entertaining aesthetic—all to be avoided: “Mason-jar glasses, mini-chalkboard menus with exaggerated calligraphy, galvanized steel buckets as wine chillers and baskets of ‘Rosé All Day’ paper napkins.” Not sure we need to listen to everything Mark says, but we say, have fun with it and deliver a setting your that will make your guests feel comfortable. One cool idea for decorations could be employing a theme – for example, the elements of famous paintings – for the look of the decor.
Let There Be Light
Nothing creates a great party ambiance like light. Just be sure it’s not a floodlight! According to the experts, “Aim for warm lighting that emanates from multiple levels. ‘Make a space even cozier with a perimeter of large lanterns,’ said designer Dakota Willimon of Charleston, S.C., who also likes to tuck small flameless—and windproof—tea lights among low tabletop floral arrangements. Portable table lamps, which can be set on the ground, also work wonders for creating an ambient glow.”
Seating Sets the Tone
These experts who party for a living, know how the seating layout can encourage conversation, or stifle it. They suggest that you “think beyond dining tables. Denver interior designer Julie Brayton sets small benches or lounge chairs in unexpected corners so guests can move about. If you’re lucky, you can exploit your hardscaping. A broad set of steps or a low wall with outdoor pillows will allow for smaller conversation groups.”
New Friends Are Waiting
One of the best parts of living in an amenity-rich environment like Creekshaw is the people you run into on the walking paths or at the swimming pool (which is opening very soon!). These folks are just like you and your family. They’re friendly, have great stories, and make wonderful party guests. Maybe it’s time for you to check out where all the fun is happening. Click here to schedule a visit, and let’s get this party started!