Brion and Lyssa accepted the Smithson’s party invitation with anticipation. The neighbor’s house and backyard were beautiful and welcoming for parties. And the couple knew their friends’ party would not be the typical go go go once arriving at the shindig.
Image credit: Pixomar | FreeDigitalPhotos.net
The Smithsons loved having get-togethers, and they had honed in on an important truth: Some guests like to be entertained while others like to unwind and relax.
Doing both in a single party takes a bit of planning and preparation, but can leave the event the talk of the neighborhood for weeks to come.
Make your yard inviting
The Smithson’s landscaper made the yard visually appealing. Grassy areas were neatly manicured and walkways were smooth and wide so guests would not trip or stumble. Plenty of yard lights illuminated pathways, but were not so close to seating areas as to draw insects.
And while the Smithsons were nature lovers, they also understood that bee-drawing flowers needed to stay well away from populated areas of the yard so guests with allergies would not succumb to stings. Other decorative flowers were strategically placed to be visually appealing, but not overwhelm scent-sensitive visitors with their aroma.
Similar yard layouts are available from a number of resources, such as houzz.com and other landscaping professionals.
Play areas, rest areas
While not specifically cordoned off or marked, the party yard was built with “activity zones” in mind. Volleyball, croquet and horseshoes were stored in a plastic yard shed near the play area, well away from the patio and grill.
Relaxing guests were not intermingled with volleyballers hell-bent on spiking into someone’s plate. The yard was big enough to accommodate an above-ground swimming pool for fun and splashing. It was located to be visible by parents, but not allow tidal waves hitting seated guests at the patio.
A smaller yard could feature a gazebo or pergola with outdoor sound system for dancing or chatting.
Don’t forget the food
Considerable thought should be put into cooking, serving and eating food at an outdoor party. The Smithson patio featured a stainless cooking station with grill at the end. An inlaid stone patio covered by an Apollo Opening Roof system ensures outdoor fun even in inclement weather.
The adjustable louvered roof systems can be made for any application and offer a nice climate control system for guests to enjoy eating and socializing in a comfortable setting.
Sight and sound
Setting the mood and background ambience can add considerably to a fun party atmosphere. Strategically placed all-weather outdoor speakers can liven up a party; just don’t let the kids control the music content.
Roll the big screen television through the patio doors, plug into the speakers, and a ho hum cookout becomes a baseball game shindig or a football at-home tailgate.
With a little forethought and planning, just about any backyard can become party central. The Smithson’s fun zone brings neighbors and friends together, and provides for a nice, easy way to celebrate any occasion, or just head to the backyard for a little fun.
Lizzie Weakley
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[…] you have a fireplace, use it to provide the cozy backdrop for conversation and laughter. Light up a beautiful outdoor yard covered in white, so guests can enjoy it while they […]