Right, so I’m always on the lookout for ways to make outdoor entertaining a breeze, and my latest obsession? Lawn games! Forget awkward silences and guests glued to their phones; a bit of friendly competition is just the ticket for a cracking summer BBQ. I sat down with Isabelle, a seasoned party planner and queen of backyard bashes, to get her insider tips. Here’s what I learned.
Why Lawn Games? (Isabelle’s Perspective)
Isabelle kicked things off by reminding me why lawn games are such a winner. “They’re inclusive! You can adapt most games to suit different abilities and ages, which is crucial when you have a real mix of people. Plus,” she added with a grin, “they’re just plain fun. Who doesn’t love a bit of healthy rivalry?”
Choosing the Right Games: A Balancing Act
Okay, so you’re sold on the idea, but where do you start? Isabelle suggests thinking about your guest list. “Consider the age range and physical abilities of your guests. You don’t want Granny to feel left out or the toddlers getting bored.”
Here’s her breakdown of some popular options:
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Classics with a Twist: “Cornhole (or bean bag toss, as we sometimes call it) is always a hit, easy to learn but tricky to master. Giant Jenga is hilarious too, especially as the tower gets wobbly! Badminton is great for the more active, but make sure you have enough space.”
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DIY Delights: Isabelle is a big fan of DIY games. “They add a personal touch and are often cheaper than buying them. Think giant Connect Four made from plumbing pipes, or a ring toss using empty bottles. Get the kids involved in making them!”
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Something for Everyone: “Croquet is a lovely, slightly more refined game that can be surprisingly competitive. But really, the key is variation. Have a few different games on offer so people can choose what they fancy.”
Adapting for All Abilities: Inclusivity is Key
This is where Isabelle really shone. She stressed the importance of making games accessible to everyone, especially elderly guests or those with mobility issues. “Consider providing chairs near the games so people can rest. For cornhole, maybe let them throw from closer to the board. For croquet, they might prefer to sit on a stool while playing. The goal is to ensure everyone feels included and can participate comfortably.” Another of her tips was to make sure that everything is visible for those with sight issues. Brightly colored beanbags and balls and well lit spaces. Also, consider that noisy environments can be difficult to navigate for those who are hard of hearing. So consider turning the music down whilst speaking to someone or directing games.
Food and Drink Considerations
“It’s not just about the games,” Isabelle reminded me. “Good food and drinks are essential for a successful outdoor party.” She recommends setting up a self-service drinks station with plenty of options, including water, juice, and some alcoholic beverages. For food, think easy-to-eat finger foods that people can enjoy while playing games. BBQ staples like burgers, sausages, and salads are always a good choice. Mini pizzas and vegetable sticks with hummus also work well.
The Orangery Advantage
We even touched on how an orangery can enhance the experience. “It’s a fantastic option if the weather turns a bit dodgy! You can move the party indoors but still maintain that outdoor feel. Plus, it provides extra space for setting up food and drinks, or even for playing smaller games like cards or board games if some guests want a break from the lawn.”
Evening Bonfires: The Perfect Finale
“Don’t forget about the evening! As the sun sets, lighting a bonfire is a great way to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Toast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy the warmth of the fire.”
Pulling it All Together
So, there you have it – Isabelle’s top tips for creating a fun and inclusive outdoor party with lawn games. The key takeaways? Plan ahead, consider your guests’ abilities, offer a variety of games, and don’t forget the food and drinks. A little bit of thought and effort can make all the difference in creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
