How To Plan The Perfect Backyard Event

Sometimes, the best venue for event planning is right in your backyard...literally! We may be a few months in, but there is still plenty of time left this summer to plan a great gathering for you and your closest friends and family, without having to splurge on event venue rental. Whether you have a backyard of your own or know someone who would be willing to let you borrow theirs for the evening, there are lots to consider when planning a backyard event to remember.

I know what you’re thinking, how complicated can a backyard event really be? After all, if everyone brings a dish/their own booze and the sun is shining, you’ve got everything you need, right? To that I say, “depends who you ask”, and if you know me, you know that I like to go all out. That’s what LeFeast is all about! 

So let’s get to it. Are you planning on hosting an unforgettable backyard party this Summer, but don’t know where to begin? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here are my expert tips on how to throw a perfect backyard event without breaking the bank.

Choose a theme! 

Who doesn’t love a themed party? I know I do! I believe that having a common factor throughout the event takes it from a simple at-home hangout to a fully realized event. That being said, you don’t want to get over complicated where your guests might be overwhelmed and not understand. Try to refrain from niche pop culture references or abstract cuisines and stick with the classics: color stories, favorite destinations (Mexican, Greek, Western, etc.), or memorable eras! Once you’ve selected a theme, the rest of the planning will have a much more clear direction. 

Create a picture-worthy table setting 

You want your table to wow your guests and, of course, be picture-worthy. If your guests don’t share about the event on social media, did it really happen? If you don’t have a collection of your own, don’t worry — there are plenty of options! 

Social Studies Parties allow you to rent an entire look to dress your table. It ships directly to your house and comes with super easy instructions on how to use everything. At LeFeast, we used The Doppio collection at a Mexican-themed dinner a few weeks ago and it was a total hit. Some other great providers are Table Manners (Local to Washington, D.C. area) and Coterie Party for elevated paper goods!

Don’t forget the decor

After you set the table, it’s time to decorate! Now, when it comes to decor, the sky is the limit, but if you have to narrow it down, these are my top three pieces to consider. For evening events, Candles are a must. They are so beautiful and can transform any area into an elegant, romantic setting. Candles come in many colors and a vibrant blue taper candle can make a big statement.

Flowers are always a good idea. I recommend working with your local florist for a few arrangements to match your tablescape. Flowers are also a great way to bring your theme to life, as there are so many different kinds of flowers that each represent unique aesthetics. Florals can range drastically in price, so be sure to tell your florist your budget range so they can provide you with the best options.

Fruit is a multi-purpose piece of decor. Not only does it look beautiful when it’s arranged in bowls, it can be eaten! Some of my favorite types of fruit to use in decorations are red cherries and orange nectarines. Citrus also adds some wonderful color. For Fall, pomegranates are a must on tables.

Bon Appetit! 

One word: food! Of all the ways to bring an event’s theme to life, food is the most important. We love working with private chefs when entertaining at home and The Culinistas are a great match for at-home events. In addition to providing delicious food, we always recommend printing a menu for your guests. If you’re looking for someone to design this for you, Etsy is full of amazingly talented individuals who can help you out with this. 

Make an impression from beginning to end 

To make a lasting impression at any event, start strong and end strong! How do you greet your guests and how do you say goodbye? Try greeting your guests with a beverage when they arrive. They could be available on a beautiful bar cart or beverage tub filled with crushed ice and wine. I prefer one type such as a rose or something with bubbles.  If you go with an Italian theme, an Aperol Spritz never disappoints.

When guests leave make sure to give them something that will keep them thinking about the party! One of my favorite parting gifts that guests love is good “morning” bread, tied with a sweet note. The next morning, your guests will wake up and have breakfast and a reminder.  This can also be related to the theme. For example, lemon cake for your Italian dinner or blueberry muffins for the lobster boil.

I hope you find some of these tips useful when planning your next backyard event! For more information on our at-home event services, feel free to reach out directly to tracie@lefeast.com. I would love to help you turn your backyard into your dream venue with you!