The newly renovated patio at MJ O’Connor’s Westin features televisions, living plant walls, torches AND Patio Punch (pictured here)!
There is nothing better than being outside in the summer, with an ice cold drink and good company. The many patios in the Boston area afford the chance to throw a totally wicked outdoor party for work, for your birthday (why are so many people born in July?) or just because it’s summer.
We spoke with our event mavens at Boston Event Solutions about the essentials of every good outdoor patio party:
- Hydration. Either chilled bottles of still or sparkling water will do the trick here, or get creative with flavored iced water in infusion jars. Flavors we love: lemon- cucumber, strawberry-basil, and raspberry-mint.
- Food… on a stick. Or, just anything easy to pass and eat neatly. Buffets and cheese displays won’t hold up well in hot weather, so stick to passed apps like grilled chicken skewers, mini sliders, BLT crostini, citrus vodka oyster shooters, calamari, and prosciutto-pesto arancini.
- Fun favors. Mini spray sunscreens, privately branded or personal messaged sunglasses, hats, or paper hand fans are all fun ways to either brand a party or say a clever message to guests. Look for favors that guests can not only use to cool down, but also as a great keepsake to remember the event!
We love these branded shades that Tito’s Vodka brings to attendees at Patio Parties and outdoor events.
- Lighting. Sure it’s light until 9:30pm these days, but lighting can really set the mood and add a special touch to your event! Candles, lanterns, stringed lights, colors, the possibilities are endless.
- A backup plan. It’s 97 and sticky or it’s 55 and rainy. We’ve seen enough of these days this summer to warrant the need for a solid Plan B, should Mother Nature not cooperate on the day of YOUR party. Speak with the venue where your event is held. Perhaps they have another indoors space to accommodate or you can secure an alternative date. During your planning, be sure to collect all of the guests’ email addresses for easy communication on the new party location or date. Work with the venue to nail down the time that you will call off or move the event and let guests know in the initial invite.
Boston Event Solutions is a full-service event planning group representing venues (many with patios and outdoor event space!) in every major neighborhood throughout Boston.
