Whether you're hosting outdoor gatherings in your own backyard or at another outdoor venue, there are a few elements you will need to consider carefully. The size of your space and the number of expected guests is only the beginning. You'll want to plan out the flow of traffic and access to certain areas. Seating is also an important factor to establish as you plan your event. While flow and seating arrangements are practical and important parts of planning, but you will also want to think about the atmosphere, mood and parking aspects of your party.
Space and Flow
No matter your space size, you can plan a get together that accommodates all your guests. A small sit-down dinner party or a large open house type of gathering at a public park both require a deep spatial understanding of the area for comfortable interaction and relaxation. If you are working with a small area, make sure you keep walking spaces clear and that each guest will have enough elbow room. In a larger venue, you may want to set up several areas that will accommodate small groups to encourage interaction.
It may also be a good idea to let your guests know where the bathroom(s) are located at the beginning of the event. Walk through your space and think about how your guest will get to the food, beverages and seating areas. Take care of any obstacles or items that may pose as a tripping hazard or that can break easily. Trying to clean up messes during an event is difficult and takes time away from your guests.
Seating and Style made Simple
Having plenty of seating for all your guests will encourage social interaction. Make sure the seats are comfortable and in good condition. The last thing you want is a guest to end up embarrassed or hurt by falling out of a broken seat. Also, think about where your guest will set their drinks or plates down while they are visiting with each other. Having small side tables or coffee tables spread around the seating areas will allow for a relaxed setting.
To set up an area that feels relaxing and fun, you may want to hang some string lighting for an evening event. This gives softer lighting than your backyard security lighting or a couple of floodlights. Using colorful planters and inexpensive outdoor lanterns can add a festive feel, as well.
The next time you plan an outdoor gathering, walk through your space and anticipate the best flow, comfort and ambiance for your guests. You'll be glad you did!
About the Author
Kyung Kim
Hi, I'm Kyung Kim. I immigrated from South Korea to the United States in 1968 when I was 7 years old. I have seen my mom struggle with the English language and work hard to raise her four kids by herself. Still to this day, I don't know how she pulled it off, but she bought her first home in 1979 for $70,000 and because of that decision, she was able to live without worrying about her financial future. I want that for everyone, to feel the pride of home ownership and to build their financial wealth using real estate as part of their financial portfolio. I feel so blessed to play a small role in helping others reach this goal.
I live in Beaverton with my husband, Richard. My mom, who lived with us for several years, passed away in our home in February 2022. Her first home purchase in 1979 made it possible for her to live to the very end, without worrying about her finances. As of August 2022 with a little downpayment assistance, our four children own their own homes. Being in real estate, I quickly realized that if they didn't buy now, they may be priced out of the market in the future. Whether that would have been the case, we will never know, but what we do know is that they are all realizing some good, healthy appreciation in their home values.
As passionate as I am about people owning their homes, I'm also passionate about giving back to our community. I support Compassion First, a non-profit organization that provides aftercare for sex trafficked girls in Indonesia. My husband and I also feel called to financially support social injustice organizations.
I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.
