As lockdown restrictions are eased across the UK, people are tentatively making plans to host celebrations and events. Of course, large gatherings are not yet permitted, and social distancing guidelines remain in force, which means you’ll need to modify your plans to take this into account.
Fortunately, the warmer summer weather means it’s easy to host events outdoors. With more space available, it’s easy for guests to follow social distancing measures and remain at least 1m apart from anyone who isn’t part of their household. Furthermore, it’s believed that outdoor events reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission because people aren’t cooped up in an indoor venue.
If you’re thinking of hosting an upcoming event, why not make it outdoors? With these handy tips, you can host a safe, fun outdoor celebration that’s memorable for all the right reasons…
1. Plan for all weathers
When you’re hosting an outdoor event in the summer, you should be able to rely on the weather being warm and dry. In the UK, however, good weather is never guaranteed. With the right contingency plans in place, you needn’t let a rain shower spoil your fun. Hiring a marque is a great option for outdoor events because it offers protection from either the sun or the rain. Whether the mercury hits 32° or dark clouds appear overhead, your guests will remain comfortable at all times.
2. Have great entertainment
All events need entertainment, but you might need to think outside the box this year. Live bands and singers are not yet permitted, although this is likely to change soon. If you can’t rely on live music for your next party, you could opt for a DJ instead. Alternatively, create your own playlist and connect some speakers for a budget-friendly option. Hiring lighting equipment and making your own digital playlist keeps costs low but still ensures your guests will have a great time.
3. Keep drinks on ice
Whatever the weather, you’ll want to keep your drinks cold so that guests are refreshed. Whether you’re serving alcohol beverages, fizzy drinks or fruit juice (or a combination), it’s important to have enough cold storage space. With fridge trailer hire from Ice Cool Trailers, it’s easy to access the flexible cold storage solutions you need. If you need extra space for food storage, a fridge trailer is the perfect place to store canapes and hors d’oeuvres too. With complete control over the temperature and flexible power solutions, you can rely on a temporary fridge trailer to keep food fresh and drinks chilled.
4. Don’t forget seating
People tend to stand for long periods of time at outdoor events but don’t let this put you off providing adequate seating. If you’re serving a buffet or finger foods, rather than a sit-down meal, it’s easy to overlook the number of seats you might need. Of course, people tend to want to sit down when they’re grabbing a bite, even when they’re consuming snack foods. Similarly, standing for long periods of time can be uncomfortable for many and you don’t want your guests leaving early simply because they couldn’t find a seat. Fortunately, seat hire makes it easy to access suitable outdoor seating that will match your colour scheme and complement the surroundings.
5. Check whether you need permits
Depending on the type of event you’re planning, you might need to apply for permits in advance. Often, the venue of your event will determine whether a permit is required. An event on public land will need authority from the organisation that manages the space, for example. If you’re hosting an event on private land that you don’t own, you’ll obviously need express permission from the landowner before you can plan your celebration. Even when you own the land, you may need a permit if you’re going to be playing loud music or partying late into the night.
Plan Ahead for a Seamless Event
Even seemingly relaxed events require a lot of planning, so don’t let things sneak up on you. By preparing for your event well in advance, you can enjoy the process, rather than feeling overwhelmed.
Many people are feeling understandably anxious about socialising again after lockdown, so taking the time to reassure them of the steps you’re taking to make the event safe will go a long way to calming their nerves.
Whether you’re planning a backyard bash, an intimate wedding or a long overdue birthday party, hosting your event outdoors could be the ultimate way to celebrate safely in 2020.
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