Keep Food Safe
Don?t let your food - hot or cold - sit out on the picnic table for more than two hours - or within one hour if the outside temperature is above 85¡ãF. Put perishables into the cooler immediately after eating. And remember - when in doubt, throw it out.http://www.americanplasticscouncil.org/benefits/in_your_life/food_safety/cool.html
Supervision Is Necessary
Outdoor play tends to get very vigorous, so your supervision is necessary to keep things from getting out of hand. You should also take a few minutes to childproof your yard/patio area before the guests arrive. Put gardening equipment in the garage, take down windchimes, move plants to another area, put any charcoal or lighter fluid out of reach, etc.
Outdoor Clothes
Let parents know that the party will be outdoors so they can dress their child appropriately. You don?t want anyone to show up in a fancy outfit that ?can?t get dirty? or restricts their play.
Outdoor Seating
Just because you?re outdoors doesn?t mean you won?t need seating. Comfortable seating for everyone is a must. "Built-in seating or seat walls can supplement garden furniture for large groups and keep the garden from looking cluttered" says Sunset Magazine. *You can also spread blankets for a more casual picnic party atmosphere.
Serving the Sweets
Serving cake and ice cream can be a bit tricky (and sticky) outdoors so you could subsitute: ice-cream sandwiches or bars, cupcakes, popsicles, slushies or sno-cones. Serve smaller portions since the goodies are likely to melt before your guests finish them.
The Messy Factor
Take advantage of the messy factor... think of themes you just can?t do indoors! Beach parties with real sand... a construction party with dirt and trucks... a make-your-own sundae party... the messy options are limitless!
Pool parties
Pool parties can be a blast! But many kids have drowned with 20 adults standing in sight! Designate one or two adults to watch the pool at all times. Give them strict instructions not to do anything else (even talk or eat).
Pets at home parties
If you?ve decided to have your party at home, consider putting any pets in an area away from the guests. Many people are either allergic or uncomfortable around strange animals, and small children can get frightened easily.
Outdoor Bouquets
Fill terra-cotta wine coolers or colorful painted buckets with bunches of cut flowers to dress up a patio or buffet table.
Party with FAO Schwartz
To throw an unforgettable birthday party, sign up with FAO Schwartz for their in-store slumber party that includes a treasure hunt, gift certificates, and unlimited access to the entire toy selection, as well as a price tag of approximately $17,500.
Dealing With Bugs
Burn citrus candles to help keep a variety of bugs at bay, and keep ponds stocked with mosquito fish. For yellow jackets (daytime nuisances, mostly), try traps from your nursery or garden center; hang them at least 5 yards downwind of a barbecue or picnic table, waist-high or lower. *Cover food, especially meat and sweet drinks, on a buffet table.
Makeover Party
If you?re looking for a fun, relaxing party why not visit a beauty salon and get a makeover? Depending on your budget you and your guests could get your nails done, your makeup done, your hair... or the works!
Keep Protection Handy
Remember to keep your guests in mind when putting on your outdoor party! Keep sunscreen handy and offer to slather some on your guests often. Also make sure to have bug spray available. Even some extra sweaters in case things get cold can make your guests more comfortable. *Perhaps put out a pretty basket full of these types of things in view of all your guests so they can help themselves.
Pets
If you have a dog that gets very jumpy around new people, take it for a very long walk before the party or let it visit at a friend?s house for the afternoon.