How to Throw a Backyard Party

Are you looking for an inexpensive party idea? If so, host a fun backyard party. A backyard party is one of the simplest and cheapest gatherings to plan. The biggest expense incurred with hosting a party is the building rental. With a backyard party, you avoid this high cost and can spend your money elsewhere.

Here are a few tips for throwing a backyard party.

Step 1: Decide on a location. Have the backyard party at your home, or someone else's home. Some backyards are small and can't accommodate a lot of people. Select a backyard with plenty of room. Will children be invited? Do you plan of sports such as volleyball? If so, generous space is needed.

Step 2: Pick a date. The majority of backyard parties are planned in the spring and summer. Late spring or early summer parties are best because the temperature is mild, guests can comfortably enjoy themselves.

Step 3: Check the 15-day weather forecast. Websites such as AccuWeather offer 15-day forecasts. Although the weather is subject to change, these sites can provide an idea of upcoming weather conditions. Plan the backyard party on a dry, bright and cloud-less day.

Step 4: Choose a rain date or alternate location. In the event of inclement weather, consider moving the party indoors, or postponing the party. The rain date might be the next day, the next weekend, or to be announced later. Because guests will likely call to confirm the cancellation, stay close to the telephone.

Step 5: Determine a budget. How much can you afford to spend? The total costs for a backyard party depends largely on the menu, activities and entertainment. Before making a purchase, establish a budget and make price comparisons. Stay within the budget.

Don't let a backyard party plunge you into debt.

Step 6: Delegate responsibilities. Ask two or three friends for assistance and avoid work overload. For example, one person could be responsible for printing and mailing invitations, whereas another person might coordinate the party activities (volleyball, water balloon fight, tug-of-war, etc.)

Step 7: Prepare a menu. There are many different ways to plan a backyard party menu. The host might prepare the food themselves, hire a cater, or ask each attendee to donate a dish. Make sure there is adequate food for everyone, and provide a lot of drinks. For a mid-summer backyard party, rent a large tent, have a lot of bottle water on-hand and re-think serving alcohol beverages.