Spring Party Primer: 20 Ideas for Fabulous Fetes
When it comes to planning a springtime fete, fickle weather can make things tricky. If you would like to have the party at least partially outdoors, there are basically three ways to go: host an outdoor party but have an indoor backup plan; have both indoors and outdoors open during the party; or hold the party entirely outdoors but have a sheltered area just in case. No matter which scenario you decide on, these 20 ideas are sure to kick-start your party planning.
1. Have a backup plan. When the weather is likely to be good, you may want to plan an outdoor fete. Just be sure to have a backup plan in case a sudden thunderstorm rolls through. At the very least, this could mean making sure to tidy up your living and dining rooms before the party, and hustling some of the chairs indoors at the first sign of rain.
2. Hang paper lanterns. Colorful paper lanterns can be found for a song online or in a local Chinatown. The least expensive ones do not have lights inside, but if you are hosting a daytime party, they are perfect for adding color and ambience. For evening fetes, spring for lanterns with battery-operated lights inside.
3. Throw a fancy lawn party. Dress up your regular backyard furniture with new cushions, or simply drape a few yards of colorful fabric over the existing cushions to refresh the look. Cover any old table (even a giant overturned planter will do) with a floor-length tablecloth for instant elegance. Bring out the nice dishes instead of relying on paper plates and plastic utensils.
4. Make centerpieces … with lettuce! For a fun centerpiece that’s also budget friendly, fill any round containers you have with pillar candles and big handfuls of fresh lettuce. Be sure to keep the leaves away from the tops of the candles, or use battery-operated candles to avoid the problem entirely. The centerpieces will hold up best if your party is on a cool spring day and your table is not in full sun.
More Ideas for Fabulous Spring Fetes
Spring Party Primer: 20 Ideas for Fabulous Fetes
