Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Planning an outdoor event

Having an outdoor event – wedding, company picnic, or party – is a great idea but there are some things you should consider during the planning process.

Weather – Rain, snow, wind and heat are all elements that can make your event not go as well as planned. It is a good idea to rent a tent. The tent should be large enough to keep guests, tables, and dance floors away from the elements. It is also important to consider having the sides of the tent closed in. This prevents the wind from directing rain and snow under the tent covering. If it is a very hot and humid day consider having the tent air conditioned. Many tent companies can provide this service. These are just a few ways to keep your guest comfortable and enjoying your event.

Catering – Make sure the caterer is aware that the event will be held outside. This can make a difference in the type of food served and how it is presented. This also goes for the bakery if a cake is being delivered.

Bathrooms – Depending on the location of your event you may want to consider portable restrooms. I know the portable bathrooms at parks and ballgames come to mind. It does not have to be like that. There are portable restroom companies that specialize in more formal restroom options giving your guest the feeling that they are in an actual restroom.

Have something for the kids – If children are invited you may want to have an area set up especially for little ones. Renting a moon bounce or having a small wading pool available will give tikes something fun to do. What about face painting and carnival games? The kids will have wonderful memories of your event too.

Centerpieces and place settings – Always consider the items that will be placed on the table during outside events. Make sure they can withstand the weather. Glass centerpieces may not be ideal during very windy days. The wind may also blow away paper napkins, menu cards and other light items. Find a creative way to keep these items where they should be.

Parking – There is nothing more frustrating than not being able to find parking or having to park three miles from an event. Keep this in mind when deciding upon a location or consider having valet parking.

Hopefully these few suggestions will make your outside event weather proof and memorable.

Happy Planning!
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Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Interesting Wedding Venues

Every bride wants her wedding day to be unique and special. Country clubs, mansion, and hotels are the typical location for wedding receptions but there are alternatives locations that may be more in line with the couples’ personalities. There are a variety of unique venues ranging from museums to ballparks. Below are just a few possibilities

Museums
American Visionary Art Museum
Walters Art Museum
Sports Legend Museum

Tourist attractions
B & O Railroad
National Aquarium in Baltimore

Historical
Meyerhoff Courtyard

Parks
Brookside Gardens
The Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore

Ballparks
FedEx Fields
Camden Yards
M & T Bank Stadium

Other
Boordy Vineyards
Nixon’s Farm
Centerstage
Strathmore
Lyric Opera House

Maryland Hall for Creative Arts


Happy Planning!!