If you’re planning a summer office party or birthday celebration, we’ve got some tips to ensure it’s an impressive event.
DO: Think Carefully about the Venue
Outdoor areas and rooftop terraces are ideal for summer parties, but be fully prepared with a rain contingency plan, including provision of enough space under shelter for the party to continue. Most people won’t mind a few raindrops, but a full shower will really dampen the vibe. Be prepared for all weather with sunscreen, hats and umbrellas, as well as blankets or heaters for the evening.
DON’T: Skimp on the Seating
Even if you’re partying in a park, there should be enough comfortable seating for all guests: along with chairs and tables, consider setting up picnic blankets and bean bags for a more casual ambience.
DO: Hire a Professional DJ
Of course we would say this, but a professional DJ can really elevate your summer party by expertly reading the crowd and ensuring all your guests are having a fantastic time. Also, they will come equipped with a high-quality sound and lighting system to add to the overall experience – will John from IT be able to match this or will he be more concerned about playing Sweet Caroline at least three times?
DON’T: Leave the Food until Late
It’s a common mistake – the drinks begin flowing as soon as the first guests arrive, but the canapés don’t circulate until hours later. Whether your summer party is during the day or the evening, ensure there are some nibbles available from the outset. Also offer a variety of refreshing, non-alcoholic options such as mocktails, fresh fruit juices, and soft drinks.
DO: Surprise your Guests
Think about ways you can make your summer party more memorable with some unexpected extras. For example, consider hiring a saxophonist to serenade the birthday boy or girl as the cake is brought out, or add a touch of midsummer magic to your celebration with a starry light-up dance floor.
DON’T: Make the Menu Too Complicated
Summer party food should be simple, minimising fuss for you and your guests. Think about finger food that you can prepare ahead of time such as charcuterie and cheese boards, seasonal fruit platters, sausage rolls, and mini pizzas.
DO: Plan some Fun Activities
Photo booths and selfie mirrors are enormously popular at both office parties and private functions, encouraging guests to get a little bit silly, play around with props, and capture some happy memories. These photos can be shared in company newsletters or social media, or simply be a nice keepsake for guests. Our Mint #Selfie mirror is going to be doing the rounds of plenty of summer parties this year!
DON’T: Book Your Summer Party Last Minute
As summer is the busiest time of year in hospitality, and summer parties are competing with wedding receptions for the same venues, ensure that you have your office party or private function confirmed weeks if not months in advance – including the setting, catering, DJ, and any other entertainment you have planned – to avoid missing out.
DO: Consider Paper Invites for Your Birthday or Anniversary
While email invites are suitable for an office party, consider sending old-fashioned paper invitations if you are celebrating an important birthday or anniversary – it adds a touch of elegance.
DO: Relax and Enjoy Yourself
Whether you’re planning your office summer party or a friend’s birthday, get as much done before-hand as humanly possible so that you can take the time to talk to your guests and enjoy the event. Delegate on-the-day tasks before-hand, such as keeping drinks topped up, putting out food and clearing away.
While most of these tips are straight-forward, it’s the planning and preparation that will make sure that your summer party is enjoyable for you and your guests.
Inspired? Hire one of our highly experienced DJs to rock your summer party.
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Writer: Dawn Gibson-Fawcett, Dawn Creative Media
