A memorable outdoor gathering is an event that employs some social engineering before, during, and after the party is over. Here are some things to consider when fashioning
your role as Host or Hostess.
Invite Your Guests. Part of the success your gathering will enjoy is knowing who is on your guest list. Unexpected guests can be a problem socially and logistically.
Make your event memorable from the start with an old fashioned snail mail invitation. Doesn't have to be anything fancy. A personal note card with a handwritten message will be especially memorable for its personal touch. It's also an easy way to communicate information that will help guest be more prepared. Notations like BOB, No Presents Necessary, bring your swim suits, etc. will permit guest to arrive confident and prepared.
Check-In With Neighbors. Unless you are hosting a Block Party, you might do well by letting your neighbors know you will be having a social gathering that will mean some extra cars on the block, some idea of when guests will start arriving and some assurance that the timing of the party's end; and decibels it might produce will be respectful and observed.
Enjoy Your Guests. Plan well. Execute well. And, put yourself in the position of confident Host or Hostess. Best way to do this. Hire a couple of young, sharp, attractive adults as your Party Assistants. Hire them for a full eight hours. Use them to help set up, tend to replenishments, and clean up. Their presence can be
all you need to stay relaxed and ready to really enjoy your guests and the full experience of the gathering you planned to be a memorable success. Guest who remember a relaxed, engaged host can serve them, and you, until your next memorable event.
Party Conversion. In some communities the Host and/or Hostess is responsible for those who leave their gathering in a less than sober condition. You should be ready to announce "last call" for adult beverages and/or remove the bar set and replace it with coffee and desserts. Shortly after you've instituted the conversion, check with known designated drivers to see if they still have eyes on their charges. Do what you can to make sure everyone gets home safe. You'll sleep better!
Thank You Notes. It's possible you won't be responsible for all the success your gathering enjoys. Again that personal note card with the old fashioned post mark, (but at least a modern text), thanking a guest's contribution, specialty purveyor, musician(s) or even a neighbor who lent you some tables and chairs acknowledges something extra that contributed to, and most likely would be welcomed again in the future to make your event even more memorable. It's like putting some extra Karma in the bank!
Guest will remember, even respect, the Host or Hostess that accounts for and executes the subtle things that make an ordinary outdoor gathering . . . An Event To Remember !