7 ways to make an indoor/outdoor venue work for you  

“It takes skill, flexibility and lots of party-planning savvy to balance an event around both indoor and outdoor activities,” says Jacquie Bols, owner and business manager of Jacquie’s Gourmet Catering.

“The ideal event planners (and we have two of the very best working with us for the past 15 years) finesse inside and outside spaces in remarkable ways that are magical for the party-goer and the events around them.”

Here are 7 vital things to work out ahead of your event:

• How easy is it to get from outside to inside? (Uneven ground is tricky if guests are wearing heels)
• What happens if the weather gets dicey? Sweltering sun? Sudden rain? Chilly evening? Make sure you have back up  plans.
• How will the food be presented and how will it be protected from the weather while kept at ideal temperatures?
• Make sure traffic patterns to food stations, bar and restrooms are clear and workable.
• What lighting is available outside? And – where are the outlets?
• Is there a convenient place to park for guests?
• Number of bathroom facilities needed -- and ideal placement?

Our event planners weigh in:

• You know where everything is, but guests won’t know until they need something. Use signage to point out parking, restrooms, the bar, and food stations.
• Vary the setting during the event. It’s a wonderful idea to hold a ceremony outside, then invite the group inside for drinks or appetizers. The change in venue encourages people to get to know one another -- leading to a more memorable event.
• If it’s a wedding, hold it outside in the late afternoon or early evening. A setting sun makes for some spectacular photos. 
• Take advantage all natural outdoor features like pergolas, archways and natural garden settings.
• Set aside throws or wraps for guests in case the evening gets chilly. Consider renting restaurant-style heating lanterns.
• If there is a fire pit, guests will want to use it. Make sure seating is available and stack firewood and lighters nearby.
• Consider more than esthetics when it comes to adding music to your event. What are the acoustics like inside and out? Ask, then test!

See you outside AND in, at your next event. We are happy to recommend some venues you might not have even thought about. Let’s make things happen together!