What to Consider for Outdoor Events
Home > Blog > Patio Perfect: Planning the Ultimate Outdoor Event
As the days grow longer and the sunshine stretches well into the evening, it’s officially patio season—and there’s no better time to take your events outdoors.
Whether you’re hosting an intimate garden party, a stylish cocktail soirée, or a lively family BBQ, outdoor events offer the perfect blend of fresh air, natural ambiance, and relaxed elegance. Here are our top tips for planning an unforgettable outdoor event.
1. Set the Scene with Thoughtful Décor
Your outdoor space is your canvas, and it doesn’t take much to make it feel magical. Start by choosing a theme or colour palette to guide your décor choices. Use natural textures like wood, linen, and rattan to bring warmth and softness to your setting. Think string lights draped between trees, elegant lanterns lining pathways, and floral centrepieces that look like they were just picked from the garden.
Don’t forget about seating: mix and match styles with poufs, lounge furniture, and dining chairs to create different zones for mingling, dining, and relaxing. If you’re tight on space, a few oversized picnic blankets with plush cushions can instantly create a cozy lounge area for an outdoor event.
2. Lighting is Everything
Once the sun begins to set, lighting transforms your outdoor event into something truly special. Go beyond basic overhead lights and layer your lighting for atmosphere. String lights or festoon bulbs add a soft glow, while LED candles and table lanterns bring a romantic touch. Consider adding spotlights to highlight trees, walls, or focal points like the bar or buffet table. For a more dramatic effect, projection mapping or custom LED displays can really wow your guests.
3. Plan for All Weather Possibilities
Even the best-planned event can be interrupted by unexpected weather, so it’s important to have a contingency plan in place. Rent a tent or canopy to provide shelter from unexpected rain or intense sun, and be sure to have fans or heaters on hand depending on the forecast. Offering guests cozy blankets for chilly evenings—or branded hand fans for hot afternoons—is a thoughtful touch that goes a long way during an outdoor event.
Keep an eye on the weather in the days leading up to your event and communicate any changes with your vendors or guests in advance. Flexibility is key!
4. Al Fresco Dining, Elevated
Food always takes centre stage at any Eatertainment event, and outdoor dining is no exception. Choose a menu that suits the vibe: for a casual backyard gathering, think grilled skewers, fresh salads, and gourmet sliders. For a more elegant affair, plated dinners with seasonal ingredients, seafood towers, or live chef stations can elevate the experience of your outdoor event.
Presentation matters too! Use wooden boards, ceramic platters, and linen napkins to enhance your serving style. And don’t forget the drinks—a stylish bar cart or signature cocktail station is always a hit. Bonus: Incorporate fresh herbs or edible flowers from your garden for that Instagram-worthy touch.
5. Keep the Comfort Factor High
Outdoor events should feel effortless and enjoyable for your guests. Provide plenty of shaded areas or umbrellas during the day, citronella candles to keep bugs at bay, and consider setting up an outdoor restroom solution if your home doesn’t have easy access. Create playlists that match the mood of your event and test your outdoor speakers beforehand.
One last insider tip: always overestimate your seating and drink options—it’s better to have extra than not enough, especially when guests linger longer in the comfort of your perfectly planned outdoor event space.
