Hey there, party people! I’m always on the lookout for ways to make home entertaining less stressful and more… well, entertaining. And with summer (hopefully!) just around the corner, I’ve been diving deep into the world of outdoor parties and backyard BBQs. But let’s face it, unpredictable weather can throw a real spanner in the works. So, I sat down with Madeleine, a seasoned hostess known for her incredible garden parties, to get her insider tips on dealing with those unexpected downpours (or scorching heat!).
Me: Madeleine, thanks for chatting with me! Your garden parties are legendary. What’s your secret weapon against the inevitable British weather?
Madeleine: (Laughing) Preparation, darling, preparation! It’s all about having a Plan B, and maybe even a Plan C, ready to roll.
Me: Okay, spill the tea! What does a good Plan B look like?
Madeleine: First, think about moving the party indoors. If you have a large-ish living room or even better, a conservatory or orangery, get it ready. Clear out some furniture, make sure there’s plenty of seating, and perhaps have some indoor games on standby. We often use our orangery. It gives us that outdoor feeling but with the safety and comfort of the indoors. It’s a lifesaver, especially if you have elderly guests who might struggle with sudden temperature changes.
Me: Excellent point about the orangery! It does bridge the gap nicely. But what if you can’t move everyone inside?
Madeleine: Then you need to think about providing shelter. Invest in a few large patio umbrellas. They’re not just for shade; they offer decent rain protection too. You can also buy cheap plastic ponchos or umbrellas in bulk and have them ready at the entrance. A covered outdoor area, even a gazebo or a sturdy tarpaulin strung up, can make a huge difference. Think about the wind direction too! You want your shelter to actually shield people.
Me: Smart thinking! What about keeping everyone comfortable if it gets chilly?
Madeleine: Blankets! I keep a stack of cosy blankets in a basket near the patio. They’re perfect for wrapping up in if the temperature drops. You could also rent some outdoor heaters. And don’t forget about hot drinks! A flask of mulled wine or even just hot chocolate can really lift spirits.
Me: Great advice. Okay, let’s talk about the fun stuff! What are some games and activities that work well for mixed age groups, regardless of the weather?
Madeleine: We love lawn games! Even in a light drizzle, croquet or boules can be a lot of fun. Giant Jenga or Connect Four are also good options. For younger children, a treasure hunt with clues hidden around the garden is always a hit. Indoors, charades or a murder mystery game can keep everyone entertained. And for the music lovers, a karaoke session always brings the house down!
Me: Fantastic ideas! And what about food? Any tips for adapting your BBQ menu if the weather takes a turn?
Madeleine: Keep it simple! If you’re expecting rain, pre-cook some of the food indoors, like ribs or chicken. That way, you can just finish them off on the BBQ when the rain stops. Alternatively, have some easy-to-prepare side dishes ready to go, like salads or pasta. And don’t forget the dessert! A warm crumble or a pot of sticky toffee pudding is always a winner, whatever the weather.
Me: This is all so helpful, Madeleine! Any final words of wisdom for aspiring outdoor party hosts?
Madeleine: Relax and have fun! Even if the weather isn’t perfect, a positive attitude will go a long way. The most important thing is to create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for your guests. And remember, a little bit of rain never hurt anyone!
So, there you have it! From umbrellas and blankets to indoor games and backup menus, being prepared for unexpected weather is key to a successful outdoor party. Remember to adapt your plans to the specific needs of your guests, considering age ranges and mobility. An orangery or conservatory can be a fantastic asset, providing a comfortable and stylish space that bridges the gap between indoors and outdoors. And most importantly, don’t let a little bit of rain (or sunshine!) spoil the fun. With a little planning and a positive attitude, you can throw a memorable garden party that everyone will enjoy, come rain or shine!
