An outdoor party needs space for guests to eat, sit and move around comfortably. Plan for the weather and bathroom access as well as the food and entertainment.
Things You Need for a Party Outside
1. Party Tents
A marquee can provide shade and shelter, but check the location and weather forecast before choosing it. Ask the hire supplier about suitable anchoring, installation and weather limits. Keep an alternative plan for conditions the tent cannot handle.
2. Tables and Seating
Match the furniture to the way you are serving food. A seated meal needs a place for each guest; a casual gathering may use shared tables and smaller seating areas. Leave clear routes between the seats, food and toilets, including space for guests using mobility aids.
3. Food and Drink
Decide whether you will cater yourself or use a supplier. Confirm dietary needs, serving times and who will look after food during the event. Include drinking water and a place to keep drinks cool.
4. Plates and Cutlery
Count place settings and serving utensils before shopping or hiring. Allow for replacements and people returning for another course. Plan where used items and rubbish will go so tables stay usable throughout the party.
5. Decorations
Start with lighting that helps people find their way around after dark. Keep cables out of walkways and use equipment suited to the conditions. Add decorations once the seating, access routes and service areas are settled.
6. Music and Entertainment
Choose equipment for the size of the space and arrange a suitable power supply. Leave room for performers or a dance floor without blocking exits or toilet access. Check venue rules and local noise requirements before setting the finish time.
7. Bathroom Facilities
Check which existing bathrooms guests can use, how easy they are to reach and whether they suit everyone's access needs. Having more than one bathroom does not by itself establish that there are enough facilities.
A rule such as one toilet per 50 guests is only a starting assumption. The number needed also depends on how long guests stay, peak attendance, food and drink service, existing facilities and accessibility. Use our event toilet-number planning guide to prepare the details for your enquiry.
Plan who checks cleanliness and supplies during the party. Ongoing servicing is not included by default in event hire; agree any additional visits before booking. Confirm specialist accessibility requirements with the venue and supplier rather than assuming a standard portable unit meets them.
Throw Your Next Party in Style with Poles & Holes!
Our event portable toilets come from a separate event fleet. Event hire has a flat four-day minimum, including when the party itself lasts one evening or a weekend. Extra days and delivery or collection are priced separately.
Send the address, hire dates and expected guest numbers when you enquire. Include any existing bathrooms and access constraints so we can discuss the available hire setup before you book.
About the author
Doug, Owner & Director
Doug and Deb purchased Poles and Holes in 2002 as its third owners. Doug is the owner and director of the Capalaba business, which was established in 1960 and supplies temporary power poles, portable toilets and site security cameras.
